Course description
Get a comprehensive introduction to the world of horticulture, garden and landscape design, and plant production with our Level 3 Technical Diploma at Writtle College.
This Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma is ideal if you’re looking to work in horticulture and want to learn more about all aspects of the industry.
We’re one of the leading land-based institutions in the UK, based on 150-hectare campus with temperature-controlled glasshouse, gardens and a large collection of trees and plants.
As a student at Writtle College, you’ll gain experience of planting, growing and caring for plants, shrubs and trees – including fruits and vegetables.
You’ll also learn about garden design and history, landscape construction, plant and soil science, plant production and identification, and estate management.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 or A*-C; must include English and Maths.
- A work placement of 5 days in a related industry is desirable.
- Satisfactory references from most recent school, college or employer.
- Alternative qualifications or experience will be considered on application.
Important additional notes
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.
Training Course Content
Mandatory units
- Principles of Health and Safety
- Maintain Turf in Parks and Gardens
- Identification, Selection and Planting of Plants
- Land-based Industry Machinery Operations
- Principles of Plant Health and Protection
- Plant and Soil Science
- Undertake and Review Work-related Experience in the Land-based Industries
- Establish and Manage Exterior Plant Displays
- Site Surveying, Levelling and Setting Out
- Principles and Practice of Garden Design
Course delivery details
This course features ten mandatory units, including a work placement. You’ll learn about a range of job roles from grounds maintenance, machinery operator, compliant with health and safety, management of maintenance activities with planning and scheduling along with plant health monitoring. You’ll also gain the skills to survey sites, carry out site analysis with soil assessments, and make recommendations to improve, manage or transform gardens.
Why choose Writtle University College
Ranked Top University-Sector Institution in East Anglia for overall student satisfaction!
*Based on NSS 2022 Based on Taught Data
Beautiful rural campus situated close to the city of Chelmsford, 40 minutes from London and the coast.
Expenses
Fee: £4,425 Students over 19 starting 2023/24 (funding available)
Continuing Studies
Careers and educational progression
Level 3 qualifications can provide a route into the horticultural profession, support career development if you’re already working in horticulture, or be a foundation for further learning or training.
After completing this course, you could further your education by joining the second year of ourLevel 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Horticulture. This includes a work placement in the industry.
Or you might move into employment in roles including:
- Grounds maintenance manager
- Machinery operator
- Park and gardens planning and scheduling officer.
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Welcome to Writtle College! Writtle College, a further education provider, now part of ARU, is located at the ARU Writtle campus on the outskirts of Chelmsford, Essex. We offer a wide range of exciting courses in land-based, creative and sports...