The garden offers opportunities for everyone whether a total beginner or the keen gardener. Those who would like to take their interests can take part in formal horticulture training, with accredited courses assessed by either City and Guilds or the Open College Network, depending of the learner’s objectives and capabilities.

NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture

NOCN Level 1 Certificate in Horticulture 4 1

These qualifications will provide learners with horticultural skills and knowledge that will enable them to progress to:

• higher level related qualifications in the qualifications framework;
• apprenticeships;
• employment in this field.

The rules of combination are designed in such a way as to ensure that all learners who achieve the qualifications will have developed knowledge, understanding and skills in health and safety and the growing of plants. The options provide a range of opportunities to develop further knowledge and skills in specific aspects of horticultural practice. A small number of credits in the Certificate may be obtained from communication and customer service units; this will allow providers to include an element of PSD in their offer. There is an emphasis on competency based assessment; learners must demonstrate practical application of skills acquired. Learners will therefore be equipped to progress to further learning and employment in horticulture.