Horticulture (Practical): College Certificate SCQF Level 5

What is special about this course?

The horticulture industry plays an increasingly important part in the rural economy in Scotland and Moray. 

With an increase in demand for skilled workers and expected growth in employment opportunities, there’s never been a better time to find employment in this rewarding industry.

This course covers all aspects of the industry from commercial growing to vegetable gardening and is ideal if you have some knowledge of horticultural practices as it will provide you with the opportunity to develop advanced practical skills and extend your understanding and theoretical knowledge.

The course incorporates an SVQ 2 in Horticulture (SCQF Level 5), which is an industry standard qualification.

Special features:

• You will gain practical industry skills
• You will study at our training facility at the Biblical Garden in Elgin overlooking the iconic Cathedral
• You are part of creating and maintaining this outstanding community and tourism asset
• Small student numbers mean there is a close working relationship between you and the staff

You will have the opportunity for placements throughout the year as part of your course.

Entry requirements

• Three National 4s (including English) OR
• A SCQF level 4 course.
• Applications are encouraged from prospective students without the standard entry requirements as listed above.

Course content includes:

• Plant Propagation and Nursery Skills
• Garden and Plant Maintenance
• Soils and Composts
• Turf-Care
• Botanical Plant Identification
• Pests and Diseases
• Machinery Maintenance

You will have the opportunity for placements throughout the year as part of your course.

Equipment

You will be required to purchase essential equipment as part of this course:

• Steel toe capped safety boots and gloves (Approx. £40)
• Suitable clothing for outdoor work (Approx. £30)
• A list of recommended texts and other useful, but not essential items will be provided in the course handbook.

If you are eligible for a bursary these costs will be covered.

Fees

Normally, if you are studying full time for the first time and are Ordinarily Resident in Scotland your course fees will be covered through the information you provide on your course application.

If you are studying part time and are on low income or in receipt of certain benefits your course fees may be covered by a fee waiver.

If you are not Ordinarily Resident in Scotland, you may need to pay course fees.

Please refer to our Fees and Funding section for more information.

* Fees for 2024/25 are still to be confirmed.

Funding

Our Student Finance Advisers can advise you on all aspects of student funding. The support available depends upon your personal circumstances.

Please refer to our Fees and Funding section for more information.