Level 1 Garden Design Course in London. Classes run at Capel Manor College Mottingham Campus, part-time during the day. You must be aged 19 or over to enrol. No previous experience is required, though you'll need at least basic Maths and English to GCSE level or equivalent. The course runs over 12 weeks, covering the fundamentals of garden design from the ground up, including introductory drawing skills. It's a manageable commitment that fits around other responsibilities. You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Level 1 Certificate in Garden Design.
Who this course is for
This short, introductory course is ideal for complete beginners, new to drawing. We offer this course in-person at a variety of our campuses, and there is an online-only option for those that may find online lessons easier to commit to.
Entry requirements
No previous experience is required but applicants need to have at least basic Maths and English to GCSE qualification (or equivalent) together with a good standard of literacy and numeracy. You must be aged 19 and over to enrol on this course.
What you will learn
You'll develop the basic principles of garden design.
You'll explore how to plan and layout a garden space.
You'll learn how to consider scale, proportion, and layout in a design.
You'll study plant selection and how plants work within a design scheme.
You'll build an understanding of how to present design ideas clearly.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at the Mottingham Campus. Teaching covers both theory and practical drawing work. Assessment is based on coursework and design projects completed during the course. There are no formal written exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Capel Manor College Mottingham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Garden designer assistant: support professional designers on residential projects.
Grounds maintenance operative: maintain gardens, parks, and green spaces.
Landscape gardener: plan and create outdoor spaces for clients.
Garden centre advisor: advise customers on plants and garden layouts.
Horticultural technician: support planting and design in public or private settings.
What you could study next
Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture: broadens your plant knowledge and practical skills.
Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Garden Design: the next step if you want to develop your design skills further and work toward professional practice.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture: a deeper qualification for those aiming at supervisory or specialist roles in the sector.
