Entry Level Skills for Working Life Certificate - Horticulture

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Entry Level 2 Skills for Working Life horticulture Route

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Skills for Working Life Entry 2 -Horticulture qualification provides learners with a practical introduction to working in the horticulture and gardening industry. It focuses on developing essential skills and knowledge needed to work safely and effectively with plants, tools, and outdoor environments. Learners gain hands-on experience in tasks such as planting, weeding, watering, maintaining green spaces, and using basic gardening equipment. The course also introduces topics like plant identification, soil preparation, and environmental awareness, helping learners understand how to care for plants responsibly and sustainably. Suitable for beginners and those with learning support needs, this Entry Level qualification builds confidence, teamwork, and employability skills, preparing learners for further study or entry-level work in horticulture or land-based industries.

This course is also a good progression for our students and young farmers who have been completing AQA Unit Award Scheme Certficiation. It covers slighty more content but they gain a qualification.

Why study with us

Choosing Frampton Farm means learning in a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring environment where education comes to life outdoors. Our hands-on approach allows students to gain real experience working with animals and the land, developing practical skills alongside personal confidence and teamwork. With experienced tutors who combine teaching expertise and farming experience, we provide high-quality education tailored to each learner’s needs — including those with SEN and SEMH support. Whether students are working toward recognised qualifications or building life skills, Frampton Farm offers the perfect balance of learning, growth, and wellbeing.

Entry requirments

  • Aged 9 years plus
  • Self funded
  • No prior qualifications
  • An interest in horticulture
  • Learners should have some basic reading and writing skills, however this course is 99% practical.
  • Commitment to learning

Course criteria

Assessment is based on practical activities, observations, and simple written or oral tasks, rather than exams. Learners are expected to demonstrate skills such as planting, maintaining outdoor areas, using tools safely, and working effectively with others alongside employment skills such as ICT & health and safety, showing their ability to apply knowledge in real-life situations within the horticulture industry.

UNIT examples

Unit 201 in the Skills for Working Life qualification focuses on helping learners understand the importance of maintaining safety in the workplace and knowing how to respond appropriately in emergency situations. The unit covers key topics such as identifying common workplace hazards, understanding basic health and safety signs, and following safe working practices

This unit provides learners with a foundational understanding of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its uses in everyday life and the workplace. The unit covers basic skills such as using computers and mobile devices, navigating software applications, and understanding digital communication tools. Learners are introduced to word processing, spreadsheets, and simple presentations, as well as basic internet use, including safe browsing and email communication.

238 introduces learners to the principles of creating outdoor spaces that support and encourage wildlife. The unit focuses on planning and designing areas that provide food, shelter, and suitable habitats for a variety of species. Learners will explore different types of wildlife-friendly features, such as ponds, bird boxes, hedgerows, and wildflower areas, and learn how to select plants and materials that benefit local ecosystems. Through practical and theory-based activities, learners gain an understanding of biodiversity, environmental responsibility, and sustainable land management, while developing the skills to plan and improve habitats that attract and support wildlife.

Helps learners develop a basic understanding of the main parts of plants and their functions. The unit covers identifying key plant structures such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds, and understanding their role in growth and survival. Learners will observe and handle real plants to recognise these parts in different species and learn simple terminology used in horticulture. The unit also introduces how environmental factors like light, water, and soil affect plant development. By completing this unit, learners gain essential knowledge and observation skills that form a foundation for further study or practical work in horticulture and plant care.

focuses on developing the practical skills needed to water plants effectively and safely by hand. Learners will gain experience using different types of watering equipment, such as hoses and watering cans, while understanding how to adjust techniques for various plant types, soil conditions, and weather. The unit covers the importance of providing the right amount of water, avoiding over- or under-watering, and recognising signs of plant stress or dehydration. Health and safety practices, including correct posture, handling of equipment, and water conservation, are also emphasised. By completing this unit, learners will be able to confidently carry out one of the most essential tasks in plant care and maintenance.

Teaches learners how to insert plant material correctly to encourage successful growth and propagation. The unit covers recognising suitable plant materials—such as cuttings, seedlings, or young plants—and understanding the basic requirements for their establishment, including appropriate growing media, spacing, and environmental conditions. Learners will gain hands-on experience in preparing planting areas, handling plant material carefully, and inserting it at the correct depth and orientation.

provides learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to build and maintain a composting system. The unit covers identifying suitable materials and tools for constructing a composter, understanding different composting methods, and learning how composting supports sustainability by recycling organic waste. Learners will gain hands-on experience in assembling a composter safely, positioning it in an appropriate location, and following health and safety procedures throughout the task. The unit also introduces the basic principles of composting, including what materials can be composted and how to maintain the right conditions for effective decomposition

Q&A: Popular course related questions

This course is suitable for learners aged 9 years and above who have an interest in animal care and farming. As an Entry Level qualification, the content is designed to be accessible, providing more basic information compared to higher-level courses. While there is some theory-based learning, all assessments can be completed through practical demonstrations, worksheets, or oral questioning, making it ideal for learners who prefer hands-on experience and interactive learning.

This is a private education course and no external funding is available. The cost is £50 per session for group based learning. It is also available for 1:1 lessons and for some of our young farmers clubs, please contact us for more information.

There is also a fee to register with City & Guilds (2025) price £34.60

You will need a few essential items for the course: pens, paper, a lever-arch folder, steel toe-capped or wellington boots, a farm polo or hoodie, waterproof clothing and gardening gloves.

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