Develop confidence and practical skills in plant care, growing, ground preparation and horticultural maintenance through hands-on learning in a working farm environment.
Our course combines supervised practical activities with accessible classroom learning, helping learners develop independence, safe working habits and an understanding of horticultural techniques.
Our City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills (7573-11) develops essential skills in preparing ground, planting, watering, caring for growing areas and raising plants from seed through practical farm-based learning.
Learners work in growing beds and outdoor areas, developing practical techniques, safe tool use, confidence, organisation and responsibility. Short theory sessions support the practical learning.
This course is designed for learners interested in gardening, plants and outdoor work. It may suit home-educated learners, young people who prefer practical learning and those progressing from Entry Level horticulture courses.
Previous horticulture qualifications are not normally required. We assess suitability individually, including the learner’s ability to access the qualification and complete the required practical assessments.
Learners may progress to the Level 1 Diploma in Practical Horticulture Skills or other suitable land-based and horticultural qualifications.
The Certificate includes four mandatory units (10 credits) and four selected optional units (8 credits), totalling 18 credits.
Unit 101 – Prepare ground for sowing or planting under supervision (3 credits): Learn to prepare a suitable growing area, select PPE and tools, and leave the site safe and tidy.
Unit 102 – Plant container grown subjects (3 credits): Prepare and plant container-grown plants at a suitable depth, taking account of plant needs.
Unit 103 – Prepare soil and apply organic mulch (2 credits): Prepare the soil surface, recognise suitable mulching materials and maintain a tidy work area.
Unit 104 – Water a bed, border or area of plants in containers (2 credits): Recognise when watering is needed and water plants using suitable methods without causing damage.
Unit 108 – Plant flower bulbs for naturalisation or bedding (2 credits): Select suitable bulbs, prepare the planting area and plant using appropriate techniques.
Unit 111 – Care for a planted area (2 credits): Maintain planted areas by removing unwanted plants and caring for the soil surface.
Unit 123 – Sow seeds indoors in containers (2 credits): Prepare containers and sow seeds indoors using suitable methods and equipment.
Unit 124 – Prick out seedlings singly (2 credits): Handle and transplant individual seedlings carefully to support healthy growth.
Learners practise these skills through seasonal growing activities at the farm, supported by demonstrations, short knowledge sessions and supervised practical assessments.
Regular farm-based sessions combine practical horticultural work with short classroom activities. Learners develop skills through demonstrations, supported practice and individual assessment tasks.
Personalised tuition may be available for learners who need additional support or a quieter environment. Session arrangements depend on individual needs and centre availability.
Some knowledge-based activities and research may be completed at home, alongside required supervised practical learning and assessment at the farm. All delivery must meet City & Guilds requirements.
Assessment is through practical demonstrations and assignments, with tutor guidance during learning and reasonable adjustments considered where permitted. The qualification is graded Pass/Fail.
Learners must complete the practical tasks for all eight selected units and the knowledge tasks for mandatory Units 101–104, in accordance with the City & Guilds assessment pack.
Depending on individual suitability, learners may consider:
Extend practical horticultural knowledge and skills through a larger qualification.
Develop broader practical skills through land-based construction and maintenance activities.
Progression depends on each learner’s achievements, abilities, interests and readiness for the next level.
Practical Education Beyond the Classroom
Providing practical, farm-based education, recognised qualifications and alternative learning opportunities at Frampton Farm in Kent and Poppies Farm in Berkshire, helping young people develop confidence, independence and skills for the future.
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Fees & Funding
Course Fees
Fees depend on the learning centre and delivery option. Current prices, registration charges and payment arrangements are confirmed before enrolment.
Privately Funded Places
Parents and carers can enquire directly, subject to availability and suitability.
School & Local Authority Funding
Suitable placements may be commissioned by schools or local authorities, including agreed alternative provision or EOTAS arrangements. Funding must be agreed with the commissioning organisation.
Enquire About Fees
Please contact your preferred learning centre to discuss availability and individual requirements.