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Adult Learners > Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)

RHS Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development – Level 2

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Courses Code
QD2HORHST
Study method
Part Time
Cost
£1200
Location(s)
Rodbaston
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  • Is this course for you?

    This theory-based horticulture course is designed to develop a level of plant knowledge that is required in the horticulture industry.

    It is suitable for complete beginners with a strong interest in horticulture, as well as those with some experience who are looking to achieve a formally recognised qualification.

    This is a one‑year, part‑time programme, requiring attendance at college for half a day per week. It will also require some independent study time due to its fast-paced nature.

    Upon successful completion of this course, you will achieve the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development.

    If you have any questions, you can contact the course tutor directly below:

    Nicola Davies – Horticulture Lecturer

  • Required qualifications

    There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

    Applicants must be aged 19 or over and have a keen interest in gardening and the outdoors.

  • What skills will I develop?

    You will gain an understanding of the science behind horticulture and the effects that it has on a wider society.

    The course consists of 2 units:

    Unit 1

    • Plant Science I
    • Plant Health
    • Plant Nutrition
    • Plant Specification

    Unit 2

    • Plant Science II
    • Planting Styles
    • Horticulture and Society
    • Biodiversity

  • Careers

    You may choose to study the RHS Level 2 Practical course alongside this theory qualification, depending on how much time you have available to commit. This enables you to work towards the full RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture.

    Completion of the RHS Level 2 qualifications provides a pathway to the RHS Level 3 Theory and RHS Level 3 Practical courses offered at the college.

    Alternatively, you may progress directly into the horticultural industry. A Level 2 qualification is widely regarded as the minimum standard for entry-level roles in professional gardening, landscaping, and plant production, and this course is designed to prepare you for these career routes.

  • Work experience

    Work experience is not a mandatory component of this qualification.

  • English and maths

    Although you will not be required to complete English or maths qualifications as part of this course, a good standard of both is essential due to its theoretical nature. These skills are embedded within all units due to their importance within the horticultural sector.

    Examples of embedded English skills:

    • Identifying a wide range of plants using botanical names
    • Identifying internal and external plant characteristics and the use of horticultural terms
    • Communicating with others as part of group work

    Examples of embedded maths skills:

    • Interpreting soil pH values which inform nutrient availability
    • Understanding pest and disease thresholds

    Learners who wish to improve their English or maths can explore the available GCSE and Functional Skills courses for adults at the college here.

  • Other important information

    Learners will need access to the internet and a computer or laptop.

    Course fees can be paid in full or via a payment plan, which includes a deposit followed by instalments.

  • Is this course for you?

    This theory-based horticulture course is designed to develop a level of plant knowledge that is required in the horticulture industry.

    It is suitable for complete beginners with a strong interest in horticulture, as well as those with some experience who are looking to achieve a formally recognised qualification.

    This is a one‑year, part‑time programme, requiring attendance at college for half a day per week. It will also require some independent study time due to its fast-paced nature.

    Upon successful completion of this course, you will achieve the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development.

    If you have any questions, you can contact the course tutor directly below:

    Nicola Davies – Horticulture Lecturer

  • Required qualifications

    There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

    Applicants must be aged 19 or over and have a keen interest in gardening and the outdoors.

  • What skills will I develop?

    You will gain an understanding of the science behind horticulture and the effects that it has on a wider society.

    The course consists of 2 units:

    Unit 1

    • Plant Science I
    • Plant Health
    • Plant Nutrition
    • Plant Specification

    Unit 2

    • Plant Science II
    • Planting Styles
    • Horticulture and Society
    • Biodiversity

  • Careers

    You may choose to study the RHS Level 2 Practical course alongside this theory qualification, depending on how much time you have available to commit. This enables you to work towards the full RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture.

    Completion of the RHS Level 2 qualifications provides a pathway to the RHS Level 3 Theory and RHS Level 3 Practical courses offered at the college.

    Alternatively, you may progress directly into the horticultural industry. A Level 2 qualification is widely regarded as the minimum standard for entry-level roles in professional gardening, landscaping, and plant production, and this course is designed to prepare you for these career routes.

  • Work experience

    Work experience is not a mandatory component of this qualification.

  • English and maths

    Although you will not be required to complete English or maths qualifications as part of this course, a good standard of both is essential due to its theoretical nature. These skills are embedded within all units due to their importance within the horticultural sector.

    Examples of embedded English skills:

    • Identifying a wide range of plants using botanical names
    • Identifying internal and external plant characteristics and the use of horticultural terms
    • Communicating with others as part of group work

    Examples of embedded maths skills:

    • Interpreting soil pH values which inform nutrient availability
    • Understanding pest and disease thresholds

    Learners who wish to improve their English or maths can explore the available GCSE and Functional Skills courses for adults at the college here.

  • Other important information

    Learners will need access to the internet and a computer or laptop.

    Course fees can be paid in full or via a payment plan, which includes a deposit followed by instalments.

Testimonials

“I would recommend this course to anyone interested in gardening as I chose it to understand my garden better as a hobby, but after being on this course, I would like to pursue a job in this field. The lessons are interesting and in-depth and give a great insight into aspects I would never have thought about in my garden and has helped build my knowledge and confidence with plants.”

Siouxsie Atkinson

Level 2 RHS Theory Student

Apply for a course

  • RHS Principles Level 2 (FC) (Theory)

    Rodbaston College

    Start Date: 10th September 2026

    Code: QRD2HORHST

    Cost: £1200

    Part Time: 34 Weeks

    Apply
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