Horticulture & Plant Science

Level 2 – BTEC Technical Diploma in Horticulture (Landscape and Gardening)

Course overview

Horticulture is a local, national and global industry that needs more people and this course is an ideal entry point for school leavers. It is designed to build on your natural enthusiasm and give you a broad understanding of the basic principles and practices of horticulture, landscaping and gardening whilst working and studying in the Kingston Maurward College Grade 2 listed gardens. It is suitable for people with a variety of skills and interests from the creative and scientific to the energetic or entrepreneurial.

This course offers a balance of both practical and theory and is the perfect preparation for those learners who wish to progress onto the Level 3 Horticulture course or for those who wish to enter the horticulture, arboriculture, greenkeeping, landscaping and other plant, tree and environment focused industries.

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs minimum grade 3, including English and maths. You will be required to complete a weekly work placement and must have a keen interest in the subject. Tetanus protection is recommended.

Course Structure

Course Description

Commercial gardening and landscaping, including garden design and hard landscaping

Plant naming, identification, selection and science

Preparation, planting and maintenance of plants

Care, maintenance and use of tools, equipment and machinery

Horticultural business practices

Commercial gardening and landscaping

Health and safety & Working in the horticultural industry

English and maths for students who do not have GCSE grades 4 or Level 2 Functional Skills.

Progression

Following further training: Landscape architect, plant specialist, garden designer, gardener for heritage gardens and estates, gardener and landscaper in domestic settings, plant nursery propagating specialist or garden centre worker.

L2
Course code
Start date
September 7, 2026
Duration
1 year
Location
Kingston Maurward
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