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Qualifications: FAQs

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QAre RHS Qualifications nationally recognised?

A

RHS Qualifications is a recognised Awarding Organisation and are accredited by the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulators (Ofqual) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The qualifications are widely recognised by employers within the horticultural industry.

QAre the courses full- or part-time?

A

The qualifications are delivered on a part-time basis, usually one day a week or during the evening. The courses are modular in structure and examinations are held twice a year in February and June for theory qualifications, and by ongoing assessment within approved centres for qualifications in practical horticulture.
 

QCan I study at home by distance learning?

A

Yes, there are several providers offering a range of home study courses leading to RHS theory-based qualifications.

Organisations offering distance-learning options leading to RHS qualifications (80kB pdf)

QCan I take the examinations overseas?

A

All our written examinations in theory- based qualifications can be taken overseas. To note: the practical examinations for the qualifications being phased out must be taken at a regional examination centre in the UK. Contact the Qualifications Section for further information about arranging an overseas examination.

QHow do I apply to take an examination?

A

Applications should be made through your centre. Candidates studying through distance learning will have to apply through an approved centre to sit the examination.

QWhat are the course fees?

A

Course fees are set by the college or distance learning provider – contact your centre for details.
 

QWhat are the entry requirements for RHS qualifications?

A

There is no formal entry requirement for RHS qualifications at Levels 1, 2 or 3, just an interest and enthusiasm for plants and gardening.

QWhere are the practical examinations taken and when?

A

Practical assessments for the following qualifications are held within approved centres. All practical assessments are timetabled by the approved centre. Contact your centre for details.

  • RHS Level 1 Award in Practical Horticulture
  • RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture
  • RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture

QWhere can I obtain past examination papers?

A

Past examination papers can be downloaded free of charge. Papers for the Level 2 and Level 3 theory-based qualification are available to download for the last two years, or they can be purchased by sending a letter to the Qualifications Section.

Papers for qualifications being phased out are available to download for the last three years, or they can be purchased by sending a letter to the Qualifications Section.

 

QWhere can I study for an RHS Qualification?

A

Courses leading to RHS qualifications are offered at colleges and other approved centres throughout the UK and Ireland.

Contact details for centres offering courses leading to RHS qualifications (83kB pdf)

QWho can study for an RHS qualification in Horticulture?

A

Anyone who has an interest in plants and gardening can study for an RHS qualification. Although the qualifications are aimed primarily at those wishing to acquire the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in horticulture, or are in the field of horticulture, the qualifications are also ideal for keen gardeners who wish to develop their horticultural knowledge and skills.

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Further information