This is very much a ‘hands on’ course with the pupils spending the majority of their time learning through practical activities in the greenhouse and garden. This will be supplemented by visits to a local further education college and garden centre to experience how the subject relates directly to the world of work. There is an emphasis on learning by doing; students applying their knowledge in practical and work-related situations. Anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in horticulture or floristry would find this option provides a good introduction to the growing and care of a range of plants.

Assessment
Assessment will take place throughout the course with students developing a portfolio which will attain either Level 1 or Level 2 at the end of the two years. Level 1 is equivalent to GCSE Grades D-G; level 2 is equivalent to GCSE Grades A*-C.

Year 11

The Year 11 unit includes:

• Consideration of health and safety issues in horticulture;
• Organic and sustainable methods for growing;
• Various methods that are used to grow plants from seeds, bulbs, corms and tubers;
• Taking cuttings and establishing plants;
• Consideration of career opportunities in horticulture;
• Consideration of environmental issues in horticulture;
• Review and evaluation of performance.

Year 12

The Year 12 unit includes:

• Consideration of health and safety issues in horticulture and floristry;
• Consideration of career opportunities in horticulture and floristry;
• Identification of plant diseases and pests;
• Growing and caring for plants;
• Production of a floral item suitable for a special occasion;
• Production of an information leaflet for the after-sales care of plants and flowers;
• Consideration of environmental issues in horticulture and floristry;
• Review and evaluation of performance.

Progression Pathways
Although this is not an appropriate option if a pupil is considering A-level study, it can provide a basis for further studies in Horticulture at Levels 2 and 3.

Career Opportunities
This course opens the door to the diverse range of careers associated with Horticulture, Floristry and Plant Care. Potential careers could be Tree Surgeon, Groundsman, Greenkeeper, Landscape Gardener, Garden Designer, Florist, Conservation Worker, Ecologist, Environmental Studies.