Level 2 PA1 Pesticides Course in Winchester. Classes run at Sparsholt College Sparsholt Campus, with a single daytime session lasting 6 hours. The course covers the principles of safely handling and applying pesticides, giving you the underpinning knowledge required before you can use pesticides professionally. PA1 pesticides classes are a standard starting point for anyone working in agriculture, horticulture, or grounds maintenance who needs to use pesticide products as part of their role. You'll sit the PA1 pesticides qualification assessment on the day.
Who this course is for
See website.
Entry requirements
See website.
What you will learn
You'll understand the legislation and regulations that govern pesticide use in the UK.
You'll learn how to read and interpret pesticide product labels and safety data sheets.
You'll identify the risks pesticides pose to people, wildlife, and the environment.
You'll learn how to store and transport pesticides safely.
You'll understand the correct procedures for mixing, loading, and disposing of pesticides.
You'll recognise the personal protective equipment required for safe pesticide handling.
How you will learn
The course is classroom based and runs as a single daytime session. You'll cover the theory of safe pesticide handling and application through taught instruction. Assessment is by a written test, which is the standard method for the PA1 award. You need to pass this test to receive your certificate.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Sparsholt College Sparsholt Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Groundsperson or greenkeeper, applying pesticides to sports turf and amenity land
Agricultural worker, using approved pesticides on arable or horticultural crops
Horticulture technician, managing pest and weed control in nurseries or parks
Grounds maintenance operative, treating hard surfaces and planted areas
Forestry worker, applying pesticides in woodland management
Estate or farm worker, handling pesticide products as part of general land management
What you could study next
PA6 Boom Sprayer Certificate: lets you operate tractor-mounted boom sprayers, required for many arable and horticultural spraying roles.
PA2 Broadcast and Spot Treatment Certificate: covers hand-held and knapsack sprayer use, a common next step for grounds and horticulture workers.
Level 2 Certificate in Land-based Studies: broader qualification covering a range of land-based skills for those building a career in agriculture or horticulture.
