Horticulture
Why take the course?
Horticulture offers training and work experience in a wide range of gardening activities. Students work at their own pace to develop practical skills and knowledge about plants and horticultural work.
Students learn about health and safety in the workplace, communication skills, and how to develop personal effectiveness. Students usually find that taking part in this project improves their self confidence, self esteem, and ability to concentrate.
Working on the horticulture project has the added benefits of fresh air and exercise in a stimulating, friendly, supportive and attractive environment.
What does the course cover?
Students who have done the basic training can work towards NVQ Levels 1 and 2 in Production Horticulture. This course focuses on plant production. Students have the chance to select and grow a wide range of crops for use in the SHARE garden and for sale to SHARE customers.
We have large polytunnels in which we work all year around, producing bedding plants, herbs, plants from bulbs, and decorative plants. We also arrange work placements at other horticulture centres in the local area.
KEY COMPONENTS
- Preparing, planting areas Using hand tools - digging, forking, raking.
- Planting crops Including vegetables, cut flowers and bedding plants.
- Caring for crops Weeding, pruning, watering and feeding.
- Harvesting crops
- Decorative work Preparing hanging baskets and planters for garden events or for sale at SHARE's stall at Wandsworth Show.
- Propagation of plants From seed and cuttings.
- General maintenance of the garden and nursery Grass cutting, pot washing, leaf raking.
Qualifications
City and Guilds NVQ in Horticulture Level 1
City and Guilds NVQ in Production Horticulture Level 2
Skills in working life - Entry 1-3
These skills can lead to careers in:
Parks, gardens, nurseries, garden centres, landscape gardening and plant maintenance.
