The course begins with the understanding how plants are classified, the purpose of Latin plant names, soil types, bulb planting and the basics of garden design. Students then progress to pruning, hedging, specialist perennials, kitchen gardening, garden management and planting design.
Pratical sessions at Sandhill Farm House are complemented by working visits to Sissinghurst, Arundel Castle, Great Dixter, Knepp and Woolbeding, as well as a visit to Alitex Glasshouses to study propagation techniques.
The course is led by B Brooks, the Principal of The English Gardening School, with contributions from leading horticulturalists including Nick Bailey, Caroline Jackson, Ben Pope, Troy Scott Smith and Ed Flint.
Visiting lecturers also share their specialist expertise in subjects ranging from topiary and roses to garden history and planting design with contributors including Ann-Marie Powell, Sarah Eberle MBE and Tim Richardson.
Over the course of the year students build up a personal plant portfolio to inform future planting choices alongside a seasonal log of their own garden that develops their understanding of seasonal changes and garden management. Assessed projects also include two planting plans and an exercise in writing for a gardening magazine.
At the end of the course, students graduate with a Diploma graded Distinction, Credit or Pass, giving them a strong foundation for further study and a valuable qualification for those seeking work in horticulture.
