These qualifications combine practical work-based experience with classroom-based training. Some enable you to earn while you learn! They will give you the skills and knowledge you need to do a job effectively and show that you can actually do it - not simply that you know how to do it in theory. They include:

• Apprenticeship in Amenity Horticulture

Apprenticeships are government backed training schemes aimed primarily at people aged between 16-24, although funding is available for those over the age of 24 in some regions. They enable you to learn practical skills and achieve nationally recognised qualifications, including a relevant NVQ and technical certificate. You will spend part of your time ‘on-the-job’ getting real experience and some of your time in college learning the theory you need to know. You also have the opportunity to earn a wage while you learn!

NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) and SVQs (Scottish Vocational Qualifications) are also work-related qualifications that enable you to gain the skills and knowledge you needed to do a job. You can do an NVQ or SVQ at different levels, depending on your ability and what sort of job you want to do. These qualifications are based on national standards agreed by the landscaping industry, so they are recognised by employers throughout the UK. You could consider:

• NVQ/SVQ in Horticulture Level 1 (equivalent to GCSEs or a Standard Grade General)
• NVQ/SVQ in Amenity Horticulture at Levels 2 and 3 (Level 2 is equivalent GCSEs, a Standard Grade Credit, a First Diploma or a National Certificate. Level 3 is equivalent to A-levels, an Advanced Higher, a National Diploma or a National Certificate).

If you would rather do a college or university-based course to give you the skills and knowledge you need, there are also lots of options available to you at different levels depending on your abilities and your aspirations. They include:

• First Diploma, National Diploma and Higher National Diploma

• National Certificate, Advanced National Certificate, Higher National Certificate

• BSc/BA, MSc/MA

Once you are working in the landscaping industry, if you want to improve your skills and knowledge in a specific area, you could do additional technical courses and professional qualifications. These could include:

• RHS General Examination in Horticulture

• RHS Diploma in Horticulture

• RHS Master of Horticulture

• Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Diploma in Horticulture

There are many ways to enter a career in the landscaping industry. If you have no formal qualifications but can demonstrate your enthusiasm for working in landscaping, there are opportunities for you.