Aim
The Level 5 Horticulture courses are highly recommended for those interested in hands-on, realistic experience in all aspects of gardening. The chore modules prepare learners to work as craft gardeners, with emphasis in sustainable and organic methods that are friendly with the environment. 60% of the course involves working in charity gardens nearby, established private and public parks as well as college garden space. All with the guidance of the tutors. All the skills are demonstrated in the form of workshops and learners develop great confidence by the end of the academic year. Work placement involves 440 hours in total and our partners are well established organisations that many times offer a job position to students at the end.
The Commercial Horticulture course focuses on the propagation and cultivation of vegetables, soft fruit and herbs. Learners will have the opportunity to experiment growing their own produce in the college allotment. The programme also offers progression to Horticulture programmes at Level 6 in the college.
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate or equivalent advised, but mature students with work/life experience are welcome to apply.
Programme of Study
Elective Modules
- Fruit & Vegetable Production
- Plant Propagation
- Soil Science and Growing Media
- Plant Science
- Plant Identification and Use
- Ornamental Horticulture
Core Modules
- Communications
- Plant Protection
- Work Practice
Work Placement/Gardening Projects
The course includes 440 hours of practical experience, with a range of gardening projects in public parks, private gardens and college grounds. Students will also design and help build a garden for St Michael’s House and maintain the gardens of Simpson’s Nursing Home and Airfield.
Career Opportunities
This course prepares graduates for a range of employment opportunities in domestic landscaping, private gardens, public parks, and nurseries. The Design elective allows students to look after large gardens while the market gardening elective prepares learners to cultivate a site suitable for food crop production, acquire skills in propagation, cultivation and harvesting of food crops.
Progression
Graduates who achieve the required standard may progress to the two-year part-time programme in Horticulture Supervision or Market Gardening Supervision at level 6. Alternatively, graduates may be eligible for advanced progression procedures to year 2 of Higher Certificate/Degree programmes in Horticulture through the CAO application process.
Examples of progression courses include:
- DCFE Level 6 Horticulture
- National Botanic Gardens, Horticulture
- UCD, DN272 Horticulture
Apply now to gain the practical knowledge and experience needed to pursue a career in horticulture!
