Free Level 2 Horticulture Course in Newport. Classes run at Isle of Wight College, full-time during the day. The course runs for 32 weeks and covers the practical skills used in professional horticulture and gardening. You'll work outdoors and develop hands-on techniques in plant care, soil management, and garden maintenance. Some previous experience in horticulture or gardening is beneficial, and you'll need four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English, Maths, and Science.
Who this course is for
Those people who enjoy practical outdoor work and may have already had some experience or interest in working in Horticulture/Professional Gardening. Some previous experience in horticulture/gardening will be beneficial.
Entry requirements
For level 2 Horticulture, students will be required to hold any of the following will be considered at interview: 4 GCSEs at Grades 3 including English, Maths & Science. For those students who hold lower than grade 3 GCSEs we have a provision at level 1 which will enable you to move to the level 2 programme upon successful completion.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical plant care and cultivation techniques.
You'll learn how to maintain and manage garden spaces and outdoor areas.
You'll study soil types, preparation, and how to improve growing conditions.
You'll learn to identify common plants, weeds, and pests.
You'll practise the safe use of hand tools and horticultural machinery.
You'll understand seasonal growing cycles and how to plan planting schedules.
You'll apply health and safety practices relevant to outdoor horticultural work.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based and practical, with a strong emphasis on outdoor, hands-on work. You'll be assessed through practical tasks, observations, and written assignments. Assessment takes place throughout the course rather than in a single final exam, allowing you to demonstrate your skills as you build them.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Isle of Wight 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.
Groundsperson: caring for sports pitches, parks, and estates.
Landscape operative: supporting landscaping and planting projects.
Parks and gardens assistant: working for local councils or heritage sites.
Nursery worker: growing and caring for plants in a commercial nursery.
Garden centre assistant: advising customers and maintaining plant stock.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture: deepens your technical knowledge and prepares you for supervisory or specialist roles in professional gardening and landscape management.
Level 3 Certificate in Arboriculture: a route into tree surgery and arborist work if you want to specialise in trees.
Level 3 Diploma in Landscape and Garden Design: suits those interested in the design and planning side of horticulture.
