RHS Horticulture Course in Bristol. Classes run at South Bristol Skills Academy, part-time during the day over 30 weeks. You'll develop practical skills working with plants, soil, and outdoor growing environments. The level 2 RHS horticulture classes cover hands-on techniques alongside underpinning knowledge of horticulture. The course can be taken alongside the RHS Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture. Entry requirements include a Level 1 qualification or equivalent, GCSE English grade D or equivalent, and a good level of physical fitness.
Who this course is for
Do you enjoy working outside with your hands with plants and soil? Are you looking for a change of career in parks and gardens? Do you want a part time course that leads to a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification? This course can be taken alone or in combination with the RHS Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture.
Entry requirements
To join the course you must have:----Achieved a Level 1 qualification or an equivalent in another subject--An interest in working with plants & soil outside in all weathers.--Agood level of Physical Fitness--Grade D GCSE English or equivalent--A positive attitude to excellent attendance and meeting assessment deadlines.----There is no formal interview for this course however you will be required to produce evidence of meeting the entry requirements.--You will be asked some questions at enrolment regarding your personal health and fitness as this course involves digging and carrying out physically-demanding tasks.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical plant cultivation and growing techniques
You'll learn how to maintain outdoor growing spaces and garden environments
You'll understand soil types, plant health, and seasonal care
You'll practise pruning, planting, and propagation methods
You'll build knowledge of tools, equipment, and safe working practices outdoors
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom and through practical, hands-on activity. You'll be assessed through coursework and practical tasks that demonstrate your skills. You'll need to meet assessment deadlines throughout the 30 weeks. Good attendance is expected and forms part of your commitment to the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Bristol Skills Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start. You should be prepared to work outdoors in all weathers, so suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor practical sessions is advisable.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Gardener: maintaining private or public gardens and green spaces
Groundsperson: caring for parks, sports grounds, or estates
Nursery worker: growing and tending plants in a commercial nursery
Landscape operative: supporting landscaping and planting projects
Cemetery or crematorium groundskeeper: maintaining formal green spaces
Garden centre assistant: advising customers and caring for stock plants
What you could study next
RHS Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture: covers the theory behind practical horticulture and pairs well with this course.
Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture: a natural next step for those wanting to move into supervisory or specialist roles in parks, gardens, or landscape management.
RHS Level 3 qualifications: recognised by employers in professional horticulture and garden design.