Free Level 3 Horticulture Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You train on the job, using an online learning platform alongside guidance from an assessor. There is normally no need to attend college beyond an initial interview and assessment. The course is open to people aged 19 or over in paid employment at a golf club or sports turf venue, where it must be your first full Level 3 qualification. Your employer needs to support your enrolment. The course typically takes 14 months.
Who this course is for
The course is delivered in your workplace using a mix of learning that involves use of the College online learning platform (Oaklearn) and Assessor guidance. There is not normally a need for learners to attend College other than for an interview and initial assessment. The duration of the course will in most cases be 14 months and you can start at any point in the year.
Entry requirements
This course is appropriate for people working in the Golf Greenkeeping or Sportsturf industry. You should be fully employed at a Golf Club or Sports Turf venue. Due to government funding rules the cost of the course will depend on your age, qualifications held etc. You are advised to contact the Workbased department at the College for advice on cost.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical horticulture skills applied directly in your day-to-day work role.
You'll learn how to maintain and manage turf and green spaces to professional standards.
You'll understand the principles of plant science and soil management relevant to sports turf environments.
You'll apply safe working practices and use of equipment in a horticulture setting.
You'll build knowledge of pest, disease, and weed control in managed landscapes.
You'll develop skills in planning and carrying out grounds maintenance programmes.
How you will learn
Learning is delivered through a mix of the college's online learning platform and regular assessor guidance at your workplace. You work through the qualification in your job role, applying learning directly to your day-to-day tasks. Assessment is carried out by your assessor, who visits or contacts you throughout the course. You attend college only for your initial interview and assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Oaklands College Oaklands Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Greenkeeper: maintain golf course turf and playing surfaces.
Sports turf technician: care for pitches at sports clubs and stadiums.
Grounds maintenance operative: manage outdoor spaces for councils or estates.
Head groundsperson: oversee a team managing large sports or leisure grounds.
Golf course manager: run day-to-day operations of a golf club's grounds.
Landscape gardener: design and maintain private or commercial gardens.
What you could study next
Level 4 Award in Horticulture or Arboriculture: deepen specialist knowledge and move into supervisory or management roles.
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Horticulture: a complementary NVQ route that some employers and professional bodies recognise for career progression.
Foundation Degree in Horticulture or Landscape Management: a higher education route for those aiming at management or advisory roles in the sector.
