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A gardening course is a great way to learn about gardening and horticulture. There are a lot of different courses available ranging from short online courses through to degree level courses. There really is something to suit everyone and its just a case of working out what you need and what you want to do.
That really depends on what you want to do. If you just want to learn how to garden and the basics about plants then getting some good books and / or watching a few YouTube videos should be enough. If you want to work in the horticultural industry, then it will help you massively to have a qualification that proves you know what you are doing. Be warned, horticulture is a science and therefore if you try to bluff your way through without learning what you are doing, you will get found out pretty quickly.
This depends entirely what you want to get out of the experience. If you are looking to learn more about a hobby such as growing houseplants or keeping an allotment then a short course would be ideal. You can either visit an institution such as The English Gardening School or a local college for a few days / evening. You may even find something online with video tutorials that will suit your needs. If you are looking for something to allow you to work in the horticultural industry then you will need something more in depth that offers you a qualification at the end. The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers several levels of qualification which are recognised throughout industry. This consist of both practical and theory modules and give a solid foundation, allowing you to progress as far as you want to go. Colleges and universities also offer degree level courses, should you wish to take it to that level.
This will depend entirely on the level of course you wish to take. Introductory level and short courses will likely not ask for prior qualifications or experience. However, more in depth and advanced courses will need you to have a solid grounding in the subject. Colleges and universities may ask for A levels (or similar) if you wish to take a degree course.
If you are looking to make a new career out of horticulture then you are going to need more than a short online course. While, the exact course may depend on where you want to work and what you want to do, a good place to start would be to look at the RHS Level 2 qualification. This is an industry recognised qualification that your future employer will be aware of.
This depends entirely on the level of the course. A short introductory course into the absolute basics of something like houseplants my only take a day. However, if you wish to pursue a degree in horticulture then it is likely to take several years.
Unless otherwise specified, any online course is likely to be open to under 18s. In person courses will likely depend on the facility and whether or not they have any minimum age requirements. The RHS Level 1 course is targeted at under 18s and might be a good place to start.
There are gardening courses available all over the country as well as online. Please see below for a full list:
Please select an area of the UK to see available courses.
About: (From their Website)
Capel Manor College offers a range of full and part-time land-based courses which lead to nationally recognised qualifications and potential progression into employment or on to further study. The College also offers a unique experience in that we believe there is nowhere else quite like us in Europe in terms of our facilities, activities, staff and students. Students do not attend Capel Manor College, they are Capel Manor College, and whilst studying, will be fully engaged in helping to run the College's Estates, Gardens, Farm and Floristry outlet.
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About: (From their Website)
The School was founded in 1983 by garden guru Rosemary Alexander and is based at the historic Chelsea Physic Garden. We provide serious studies in gardening techniques, knowledge of plants, plus garden layout and design possibilities, overseen by major personalities in this growing industry. Termly links with the National Trust's Sissinghurst Castle garden and practical work, guided by experienced gardeners at Rosemary Alexander's well known garden in Hampshire, ensure that the course is both practical and theoretical.
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About: (From their Website)
Each course is designed to provide learners with the practical skills, knowledge and understanding required for a successful career in horticulture. Learn everything from garden maintenance, production horticulture, groundsmanship, landscape design and plant therapy. Particular emphasis is also given to the management skills required to run a successful horticultural business.
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About: (From their Website)
We are a specialist land based college and offer a large range of courses which will set you up for a career doing what you feel passionate about. Whether you are leaving school, interested in degree-level courses, want an apprenticeship or would like to take up a new activity or learn new skills to help you do your job and improve your job prospects, Askham Bryan College is such a great place to study.
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About: (From their Website)
For anyone passionate about plants, Bishop Burton College is the place to be able to launch a career. Our tutors help develop students' practical skills with the aid of the College's outstanding facilities, which include glasshouses, a conservatory for tropical plants, potting sheds, plant nursery, arboretum, woodland areas and playing fields. Students benefit from placements in real working environments to further improve their knowledge, skills and experience.
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About: (From their Website)
Our mission of "enriching lives through learning" is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to creating a stimulating, supportive learning environment based on mutual respect and trust which enables everyone to realise their full potential.
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About: (From their Website)
We are rated Grade 2 'GOOD' by Ofsted which also acknowledged our excellent student behaviour and friendly atmosphere. We have strong partnerships with employers and other organisations which helps us offer the highest level of education and training to successfully meet the needs of the local community. Following a full inspection in 2013 Ofsted carried out a short inspection update in the autumn term of 2016 and confirmed that as a provider we continue to be GOOD.
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About: (From their Website)
Founded in 1894 as the Lancashire County Institute of Agriculture, Myerscough College is one of the oldest further education colleges in Lancashire. We have delved through our archives to bring you the history of our college, split into seven parts. It is the story of how we turned from a cheesemaking school to become one of the UK's largest land-based and sports colleges.
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About: (From their Website)
Reaseheath College is one of the UK's leading specialist land-based colleges based in Nantwich, Cheshire. We offer a range of full-time diplomas, apprenticeships and degrees, ideal for those looking for an exciting career in the land-based industries. Reaseheath has some of the best specialist facilities and resources in the country, thanks to a continuing £80 million investment across campus. This includes an £8 million Advanced Engineering and Agri-Tech Centre, £6 million Sports Sciences and Performance Academy and £13 million halls of residence.
Courses Offered:
About: (From their Website)
Merrist Wood is a fun and exciting college to be at, with excellent facilities spread across our beautiful estate and a wide range of courses to suit all abilities. Our staff are extremely knowledgeable and experienced, adding to your Merrist Wood learning experience. In return we expect students to work hard and take an active part in college life.
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About: (From their Website)
RHS Gardens offer a wide range of events, courses and workshops to enhance your experience and knowledge of plants and gardens, from pruning and propagation to art, photography and garden design. Whether you want a creative day or a short course, we have a selection of courses for all seasons and all skill levels, for you to learn in the delightful RHS Gardens.
Our industry links are excellent – from Marshalls, the UK’s leading hard landscaping manufacturer, to the RHS and the Chartered Institute of Horticulture – so if you;re looking to enter the thriving horticulture industry, studying at Sparsholt will help you get ahead. With a national reputation for excellence in horticulture and garden design, Sparsholt will provide you with the valuable knowledge and training to launch you directly into the industry or higher study at university. Our expert teaching team is renowned within the industry, regularly winning Gold and Silver Medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
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About: (From their Website)
We are an independent design school set within the grounds of historic Gossington Hall offering a range of garden and planting courses including one year professional design diplomas, ten week professional diplomas and day courses. Caroline Tatham, the Principal and lead tutor is an experienced and practicing garden designer as well as a qualified lecturer. The school has built strong links with the garden design industry and our students have built gold medal winning gardens whilst studying with us.
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About: (From their Website)
At CAFRE we have a vision for success and we invite you to be part of this. If you are looking for a career in the agri-food industry, or if you are already working in the industry, we can help you to gain the right knowledge and skills for your future. CAFRE has excellent facilities which will help you learn by putting theory into practice. These facilities are found at our three campuses in Enniskillen, Antrim (Greenmount) and Cookstown (Loughry) where we offer a range of courses in agriculture, food, horticulture, equine and agri-food business.
About: (From their Website)
RBGE provides a unique and inspiring environment for learning. Whether you want to brush up on your art, heal with herbs, develop your photography skills, explore and expand your knowledge of plants or simply relax there are over 100 short courses to choose from. Whether you are looking to join us during the daytime, evenings or weekends there is something for everyone.
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About: (From their Website)
The creation of Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) took place in 2012 by merging SAC (the Scottish Agricultural College) with three respected partners (Barony, Elmwood and Oatridge Colleges). SRUC exists to deliver comprehensive skills, education and business support for Scotland's land-based industries, founded on world class and sector-leading research, education and consultancy. The integration of these three complementary ‘knowledge exchange' services is of significant value to all with an interest in land-based activities - be they learners, businesses, communities or policy-makers.
Courses Offered:
About: (From their Website)
Bridgend College is a Further Education (FE) College supporting over 6,000 students and employing over 600 members of staff across its four campuses in Bridgend, Pencoed, Queens Road and Maesteg. Over 850 students choose to complete their higher education course with us each year. The College works in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University and is a collaborative partner of the University of South Wales.
Courses Offered:
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Melbourne, Australia
Gardens of Versailles
Versailles, France
Eram Garden
Shiraz, Iran
Monet's Garden, Giverny
Giverny, France
Humble Administrator's Garden
Suzhou, China
RHS Harlow Carr
Harrogate, United Kingdom
