Horticulture at our Gobowen site, near Oswestry
The Horticulture pathway is ideal if you like being hands-on, outside in the fresh air, and doing physical work.
Horticulture students at our Gobowen campus learn through a mix of classroom teaching along with hands-on practical tasks.
There are a variety of opportunities to explore the horticulture industry on this pathway. You will gain valuable work experience in the public-facing garden centre shop.
Throughout the course, you will learn how to identify different plants and what they need to survive and grow.
You will learn about the different types of soil and their uses. Additionally you will learn how to weed and maintain garden beds, pot plants and create attractive displays.
“I have lots of fun in Horticulture. The staff are the best and I have made lots of friends – I love growing things and looking after the plants in the Garden Centre Shop – I hope to work in a Garden Centre Shop.” Kian
It’s important to like working outside if you would like to become a horticulture student. You will spend a large amount of time in the open air on this pathway – come rain, hail or sunshine.
You will also need to be comfortable wearing protective clothing – steel toe-capped boots are a must! During your time on the pathway you will be taught how to safely use a variety of gardening tools. Additionally, you need to be prepared to put your hands in the soil and get dirty!
Work experience
Students learn and develop skills in the Garden Centre and in our industry-size greenhouses. Our walled garden provides planting opportunities for students and is also open to the public.
You will have the opportunity to put everything you learn into practice through the internal and external work experience opportunities. Here you will gain valuable real-life knowledge and work skills.
There are many external projects to get involved with. For example, students work on a variety of horticultural tasks in Cae Glas park in Oswestry. From annual flower bed displays to special events such as the Jubilee celebrations. Every year Derwen College students are asked to help with the plant displays. A testament to the quality of the work they undertake.
In the Garden Centre shop you will serve customers, as well as organise and replenish stock.
Additionally, our students are involved in a range of seasonal projects. Whether it’s growing seeds and plants and hanging baskets ready for summer; pruning trees and bushes in the autumn; or creating wreaths for Christmas.
Typical outcomes
- Vocational qualification up to Level 1
- Functional Skills qualification up to Level 2
- Subject-specific qualifications; such as Agored Cymru Entry Level Award in Exploring Horticulture
- Experience in/of:
- internal and external workplaces
- local and national competitions
- community and national events
Possible next steps after college
- Paid work
- Voluntary work
- Local college or training programme
- Supported living
“I like plants. I want to work in a Wildlife Trust and Horticulture has helped me with this.” Sophie