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Level 1 Diploma in Land-based studies Horticulture

  • BERKSHIRE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
  • LEVEL 1

Course Overview

This course is an ideal introduction to working with plants and gardens for school leavers who are seeking to explore this diverse industry.

The course also provides an opportunity for students to develop personal, social and employability skills in a highly supportive environment.

As part of this study programme students are required to study GCSE maths and English if a grade 4 has not already been achieved.

This is an essential part of the programme in order for students to develop the literacy and numeracy skills required for successful entry into employment and/or progression onto future courses.

Course Code

FF1CHOR1B0

End Date

Fri, 04 Jul 2025

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 2 or above.

You will be required to attend an interview, where your suitability, commitment and skills will be assessed.

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Course information

You will be able to develop practical skills in propagation (growing plants) and gain underpinning knowledge of horticulture related topics.
Students will work with a range of plants and tools within our 162 hectare site.
Some example units include:

-Safe and effective working practices,
-Preparing to work, assist,
-Transport and maintain tools,
-Establish and maintain plants,
-Plant propagation.
-Internal and External Work Experience

1 Year

This course is delivered through theory lessons, practical work, group seminars and internal and external professional development (industry/work placement).

You will also have individual tutorials with your Course Manager on a regular basis in order to monitor and track your progress.

Assessment takes place throughout the year through the completion of work/logbooks, diary writing to record progress during professional development lessons, online tests, exams and homework.

Level 1 Diploma in Land-Based Studies (Horticulture)
GCSE Maths and English

You will complete compulsory industry placement every week on our estate and at least one week of industry placement externally.

This course can lead to employment within garden centres, nurseries or landscaping.
Students can also progress (subject to meeting specified entry requirements) onto other courses such as Level 2 Diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, Equine Studies or Public Services.

It’s the ideal qualification within a supportive educational environment to prepare learners for working within the industry or progressing onto a Level 2 qualification.

What careers can this course lead onto:

-Conservationist
-Ecologist
-Grounds person
-Gardener
-Garden Designer
-Landscape Operative
-Machinery Operative
-Production Nursery Assistant
-Customer Service Assistant

Level 1

Working within horticulture can be highly rewarding but it requires hard work and dedication. You will need to be comfortable with working outdoors in all weathers, be physically fit and be able to carry out routine tasks e.g. weeding and maintaining borders within our 162-hectare estate.

We have a strict dress code for working in practicals, as such, you need to be prepared to follow instructions from all staff in order to maintain your own health, safety and welfare.

English and Maths will be built into your college timetable should you have not achieved a Grade 4 in these areas.

If you have a Learning Difficulty or Disability or Additional Educational Need, please let us know when you apply. You will be offered support in your interview. If you need help completing your application, we can also assist you with this.

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