Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment & Maintenance RHS Level 2 Certificate
Please note: This course is now full
This part-time Level 2 course is designed by the Royal Horticultural Society to provide a route to employment in professional horticulture by assessing knowledge of the principles underpinning horticultural practices. The course also supports career development for those already working in the profession. It can be combined with the RHS Level 2 practical qualification and the principles of plant growth, propagation and development to form a full Level 2 qualification.

Entry requirements
You must possess good English skills in order to pass the written assessment.
Course content
The RHS has been awarding qualifications for over 100 years and its qualifications are held in high regard within the horticultural industry, making this course ideal if you are looking to increase your horticulture skills and knowledge, whilst also improving employment prospects.
The course will focus on more advanced principles of horticulture, including the skills and knowledge needed to become an experienced horticulturist.
The course consists of a number of classroom-based teaching units, including:
- Understanding garden features, plant selection and planning, including surveying, recording information, and carrying out a site appraisal
- Understanding the choice, establishment of maintenance of garden plants and lawns, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials, alpines and rushes
- Understanding the production and management of outdoor fruit and vegetables
- Understanding protected environments (glasshouses, poly tunnels, cold frames etc.) and their use in plant cultivation.
Assessment methods
Assessment consists of a written examination set by the Royal Horticultural Society, which is taken at Shuttleworth College.
Further study and career options
On completion of this course you could progress onto other theory-based Level 2 qualifications, or onto an RHS Level 3 course.
Additional information
You will need to provide your own clothing suitable for working outdoors.
Funding information
This course could be FREE! You could be eligible for free study if you are unemployed and on a qualifying benefit. Find out more at www.bedford.ac.uk/concessions