Outdoor Learning

Horticulture (Level 1)

When does this start and end?

We have 2 different start dates for this course:

29 June 2023 - 14 July 2023
12 June 2023 - 27 June 2023

What are the entry requirements?

No formal qualifications are required. A reasonable level of mobility is required for this course, and a willingness to learn.

How much does this cost?

FREE*

* This course is fully funded for eligible students.

If you are not eligible, the cost of the course is £150.00. If you choose to stay residentially, and you are not eligible via the residential funding assessment, there will be an additional fee to pay. The vast majority of students are eligible to study and stay residentially for free and we will confirm when you apply.

Level 1

This is equivalent to GCSE Grades 3-1 / D-G or O Level grades D-G

Found out about Progression

Course description

Combine your interest in gardening with learning new skills for work and life. Together with the National Trust and the College you will develop your interest in gardening and horticulture. During the course you will:

Develop your horticulture skills and knowledge in the beautiful grounds of Wentworth Castle
Develop your confidence working in a team
Learn employability skills which will aid you in this vocational area
Achieve a nationally recognised qualification which could lead you to work in a fulfilling vocation
Experience a rare opportunity to learn from highly qualified horticulturalists

On completion of this course you will achieve:

City & Guilds Level 1 Award in Practical Horticulture

NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability

What can this course lead to?

This course will allow you to learn, develop and practise the skills required for progression to higher level horticulture qualifications, and to work in the horticulture sector.

Course session dates

Session dates for 29 June 2023 - 14 July 2023

Thursday 29 Jun 2023 to Friday 30 Jun 2023
Thursday 06 Jul 2023 to Friday 07 Jul 2023
Thursday 13 Jul 2023 to Friday 14 Jul 2023

Session dates for 12 June 2023 - 27 June 2023

Monday 12 Jun 2023 to Tuesday 13 Jun 2023
Monday 19 Jun 2023 to Tuesday 20 Jun 2023
Monday 26 Jun 2023 to Tuesday 27 Jun 2023

Level 1

This is equivalent to GCSE Grades 3-1 / D-G or O Level grades D-G

Found out about Progression

Our outdoor courses provide a great opportunity for people to learn teamwork and communications skills, and how to work on their own initiative, as well as developing new skills and knowledge. The grounds of our beautiful college provide an alternative classroom environment where you can begin your journey into education and start to feel more confident about moving on to other courses. Join us and see where you path leads you.

Nicky Straughan Curriculum Manager

“I am enjoying being back in education - learning, meeting awsome people and getting my confidence back.” - Craig
Learn more about Craig's story

Staying residential was the perfect way for me to learn. As well as the course subject, which everyone is involved in, learning extends beyond the class room.

Being residential added to this experience, as one really felt part of a learning community.

Awesome tutors and a very friendly place. I wish I was still there.

I was made to feel that I did matter and that I was worthy. I was encouraged and supported when I thought I couldn't do it. Despite all the failures I had previously had at other places, I did it at Northern College because I was supported by people who believed in me.