Free Level 1 Horticulture Course in Wigan. Classes run at Wigan and Leigh College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. You'll cover garden maintenance and design, plant propagation, and sustainable horticulture over 35 weeks. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs graded 3 to 9, or a City and Guilds Level 1 Practical Horticulture qualification. This level 1 horticulture qualification is a solid starting point for work in the growing horticulture and landscaping industry.
Who this course is for
If you have a passion for practical outdoors lifestyles and love to learn about plants and how things grow, a Horticulture course could be for you. We focus on developing your skills and knowledge to gain employment in this expanding industry. You will learn about garden maintenance and design, plant propagation and sustainable horticulture.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-3 or equivalent. Or Achieved C&G L1 Practical Horticulture.
What you will learn
You'll learn how to maintain and care for gardens and green spaces.
You'll study plant propagation techniques, including growing plants from seed and cuttings.
You'll explore garden design principles and how to plan planting schemes.
You'll develop knowledge of sustainable horticulture practices.
You'll learn to identify a range of plants and understand their growing requirements.
You'll practise using and maintaining tools and equipment safely.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a classroom and outdoor setting. Assessment is based on practical tasks and skills demonstrations alongside written or knowledge-based activities. Your progress will be assessed throughout the course rather than in a single final exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Gardener: maintaining private or public gardens and green spaces.
Grounds maintenance operative: caring for parks, sports grounds, and estates.
Nursery worker: growing and selling plants in a garden centre or nursery.
Landscape labourer: supporting landscaping and planting projects.
Greenkeeper: maintaining golf courses and sports turf.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Horticulture: the natural next step, covering more advanced plant knowledge, garden management, and practical skills.
Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills (City and Guilds): builds directly on this qualification and strengthens your employability in the sector.
Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture: for those aiming for supervisory roles or specialist work in landscaping or garden design.
