RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture

APPLY NOW: Applications will close on the 31st May 2020

Founded on qualifications first established in 1893, the Royal Horticultural Society Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture (replacing the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture) is an internationally recognised qualification providing a broad-based understanding of horticultural techniques and plant biology. This course is:

• an ideal first qualification for a career in horticulture
• perfect for leisure gardeners keen to expand their knowledge

What does the course cover?
The RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture is the most widely regarded entry-level horticulture course. It consists of two Certificates:

• Certificate 1: Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation and Development
  Comprised of 4 units: Plant classification, structure and function, Plant nutrition and the root environment, Maintaining plant health and Understanding plant propagation

• Certificate 2: Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance
  Comprised of 4 units: Understanding garden features, plant selection and planning, Understanding the choice, establishment and maintenance of gardens plants and lawns, Understanding the production of outdoor vegetables and fruit and Understanding protected environments and their use in plant cultivation

The full course delivers a broad-based understanding of horticultural techniques and plant biology, and provides you with a qualification that is recognised internationally by the horticulture industry.

What is the format of the course?
We offer the RHS Level 2 as an Attended or Online course.

Attended Course: A one-year part-time course.

• Daytime classes on a Wednesday from 10.00am until 1.00pm

Online Course: Full course receives 18 months online support. Individual certificates receive 9 months online support.

Do I need any prior knowledge?
The RHS Level 2 Certificate does not require any existing qualifications or experience. All you need is an interest in the subject and a willingness to set aside several hours a week for study. Overall we are looking for keen, enthusiastic ‘plants people’ of all ages, who would value the opportunity to study at RBGE and will contribute to the programme.

We do advise that you should have some very basic confidence with computers, as the attended and online courses both make use of PropaGate Learning, our online learning environment. There is further information on this in the handbook.

What support will I get with online learning?
We encourage everyone to make the most of the forums on the course. These provide a way for students to talk to one another and to ask questions to fellow students and tutors. Our PropaGate Learning team are always available so if you ever feel you are stuck with technical problem, they can be contacted via the forums or by email.

What do I need to study online?
You should be competent computer user with a basic understanding of standard computer applications such as using an internet browser, email and word processing. Experience of participating in online forums would also be a benefit, but not essential. Our ‘Digital Skills Check’ to help you to identify any areas of IT you may need to brush up on.

How much does the course cost?

Attended Course: £700, includes examination fees for one sitting of each exam at RBGE, course notes and access to online learning materials for 18 months.

Online Course: £400 for full course, includes 18 months access to our online learning materials, PropaGate Learning and tutor support; or £250 per Certificate, includes 9 months on PropaGate Learning and tutor support.

When can I start?
Attended Course: This course started on Wednesday 14th August 2019. Please email education@rbge.org.uk to be added to the waiting list for the 2020 course.

Online Course: Applications for this course will close on 31st May 2020, you will start within 3 working days of your payment being received.

How do I apply?
Attended Course: You must complete the application form in the applicants' handbook and return it to us by 1st August 2019.

Online Course: You can apply online now, please read the applicants' handbook before applying. 

Sitting the RHS Exams as an External Candidate

The RHS announced on 24th March 2020 that the exams scheduled for June 2020 have been pushed back to September 2020 due to the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) situation. As a result we are reviewing our processes and deadlines for exam registration and will not be accepting applications at present. Registration forms will be made available once these details are confirmed.