Level 2 Horticulture Course in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture, full-time during the day. The course runs for 36 weeks and covers the practical skills you need to work in horticulture. You'll study plant knowledge, growing techniques, and hands-on outdoor work. If you haven't already achieved a grade 4 in GCSE maths and English, you'll study those alongside the horticulture classes as part of the programme. The course is a strong route into the industry or into an apprenticeship.
Who this course is for
This course provides students with an excellent opportunity to access the horticulture industry and/or progress through to an apprenticeship in their chosen field. The course also provides an opportunity for students to gain the confidence to enter the horticulture industry as an employee. As part of this study programme students are required to study GCSE maths and English if a grade 4 has not already been achieved. This is an essential part of the programme in order for students to develop the literacy and numeracy skills required for successful entry into employment and/or progression onto future courses.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English, maths and science. At interview, we will require evidence of your interest and passion for working with plants and in developing a career working in horticulture. All students will need to be physically able and be willing to take part in all aspects of practical work.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical plant care and cultivation skills
You'll learn how to identify and work with a range of plants
You'll study soil preparation, planting, and growing techniques
You'll practise using horticultural tools and equipment safely
You'll learn about pest, disease, and weed control
You'll gain knowledge of garden design and maintenance principles
You'll build the maths and English skills needed for the industry (if not already at grade 4)
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and practical, with a strong focus on outdoor, hands-on work. You'll be assessed through practical tasks, written assignments, and ongoing coursework. The City and Guilds Diploma is assessed across a range of units covering both knowledge and practical competence. An interview is part of the entry process, and you'll need to take part in all aspects of physical practical work throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start. You'll need to be physically able to take part in all aspects of practical outdoor work.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Gardener: maintaining private or public gardens and green spaces
Groundsperson: caring for sports pitches, parks, and estates
Nursery worker: growing and selling plants in a commercial nursery
Landscape operative: supporting landscaping and planting projects
Parks and gardens assistant: working for local councils or heritage sites
Garden centre assistant: advising customers and maintaining stock
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture: deepen your knowledge and move into supervisory or specialist roles.
Horticulture Apprenticeship (Level 2 or Level 3): earn while you learn, working with an employer in the industry.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture: a broader qualification that can support progression to higher education in land-based subjects.
