Description
This Certificate is the theory element of the new RHS Level 3 qualification. It is available as distance learning (online or correspondence).
The new Level 3 Diploma consists of
- a new practical Certificate assessed by practical examination, professional discussion and an online short-answer test
- a new theory Certificate which covers two Units (each of four topics) assessed by two online examinations
If you successfully complete these two Certificates, you will be awarded an RHS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Horticulture.
A third element, a Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation, can be added which will complete a full Level 3 Diploma.
You can watch/listen to a short voiced powerpoint on how the course for the new Certificate is arranged, and on how the exams work.
The RHS has moved in a new direction with its horticultural qualifications, to look at horticulture as the management of the green spaces which are increasingly important in an urbanised world.
It states:
‘The horticultural industries span many disciplines, from the production of plants for planting through to the production of fruit, salads and vegetables.
An important sector of this industry is the management of gardens and designed landscapes. The horticulturists who work in such settings are involved in the scientific study of plants, the preservation of heritage, the propagation of new plant material, and the pursuit of best practice to inform their management decisions.
The World Health Organisation report Urban Green Spaces and Health highlights the importance of such gardens and designed landscapes in the promotion of mental health and wellness.
Put simply people need plants. Plants need horticulturists.
The purpose and content of the Level 3 supports specialist / industry-specific pathways informed by the findings of the Ornamental Horticultural Round Table Group (OHRG).
It is aimed at those progressing in horticultural roles or having a specialist personal interest in the supervision and development of gardens and landscapes, for example public gardens, botanical gardens, heritage gardens, private gardens, maintenance and landscaping along with community green spaces. This qualification thus meets the needs of the amateur gardeners and professional horticulturists alike.
It also provides learners the opportunity of personal development, including the changing of careers and engagement in their learning and offers an opportunity to develop transferable skills such as problem solving, implementing management plans / programmes, and communication as part of their applied learning.’
