Get into Horticulture

After a worldwide pandemic, we are starting to realise just how important our gardens and the natural world are. We know being outdoors can uplift our mood and benefit our wellbeing, and the immense value of our green outdoor spaces, plants and gardens is widely recognised across the globe.

There has never been a better time to study horticulture

The horticultural industry needs qualified professionals to become the leaders of tomorrow in this rapidly-evolving and diverse career pathway.

In the UK, the horticulture industry contributes over nine billion to the UK economy each year, with recent reports suggesting it will grow significantly in the next few years.

Relying on a workforce of an estimated 300,000 people, and with additional jobs expected to boost the industry in the next few years, the surge in job opportunities in the horticultural industry will need highly-qualified workers to fill the skills gap.

With vertical farming, living rooves, hydroponics, robotics and sustainability driving positive change in the horticultural industries, it’s definitely an exciting time to Get Into Horticulture!

What is horticulture?

Horticulture is a branch of plant agriculture that encompasses the art, science, nature, technology, and business of plant cultivation.

Although managing and maintaining gardens remains an important aspect of horticulture, it is only one part of a multi-faceted and dynamic industry. Horticulturalists specialise in three main pillars; the science and biology of plants including fungi, flowers, aquatic plants, trees, nuts, grasses and edible crops (botany); landscape restoration and hardscaping (landscape architecture); and designing outdoor spaces and gardens (garden design).

Why study horticulture at Plumpton College?

Here at Plumpton College, you’ll gain both breadth and depth of knowledge of thousands of different plant species as you study within our ecologically diverse campus. You'll learn from experienced horticulture lecturers and allied professionals and be able to identify, maintain and create a wide range of outdoor spaces.

You’ll benefit from our 800-hectare campus within the heart of the South Downs National Park, containing thousands of different plant species including our Black Poplars and our national collection of Hebes, in addition to our endangered plant network connection with Kew Gardens. Our excellent large area under glass enables learners to be able to grow plants in any weather, up to a commercial level. You’ll also be able to develop your brickwork skills and paving at our large landscaping centre.

What courses do we offer?

We offer a range of ways to study horticulture with us - whether you are a school leaver, college leaver, wanting to upskill in horticulture already or looking for a complete career change, there’s a horticulture course that's right for you.

• Level 1 and 2 qualifications
  • Horticulture Level 1
  • Practical Horticulture Level 2
• Level 3 diplomas (equivalent to 3 A-Levels)
  • Horticulture Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Horticulture

• Apprenticeships
  • Advanced Golf Greenkeeper Apprentice
  • Horticulture Supervisor Apprentice (Level 3)
  • Horticulture Apprentice (Level 2)
  • Landscape Construction Operative Apprentice (Level 2)

Our NEW Sustainable Degree Course

In response to the growing demand in the horticulture industry, we’re offering a NEW degree course starting this year. And you can still apply for September 2023!

Sustainable Horticulture Management - This degree programme will give you the skills needed to manage and adapt to a rapidly changing environment, and make your mark in ensuring a more sustainable planet for the future. 

We are proud to work closely with employers and industry leaders to ensure all of our courses match current and future industry needs, and there has never been a better time to join this fantastic career pathway.

So, Get into Horticulture!

You could be eligible for funding from the college, meaning your course could be FREE (excluding material costs). Check if you are eligible by emailing enquiries@plumpton.ac.uk.

Category: Horticulture