Boyoon Choi
How RHS Qualifications helped me grow
I had always enjoyed gardening, but I wanted to understand it properly and learn in a more structured way. An RHS Qualification gave me that balance of theory and practice, helping me build my skills step by step and apply what I learned straight away.
I began with the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture at Capel Manor College, followed by the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development, focusing on the theory. Each course built my confidence and widened my understanding, giving me a strong foundation to take my interest in horticulture further.
Today, that learning shapes the work I do with schools. I volunteer, collaborate with education settings and run GrowCrew C.I.C., helping to create outdoor spaces where children can learn, play and develop a lasting connection with nature. For me, an RHS Qualification supported a career change, but it also gave me the knowledge and confidence to make a difference in school communities.
One of the most valuable parts of studying was being able to connect what I learned to real situations. Many schools have outdoor areas with huge potential, but limited time or funding to develop them. My RHS studies strengthened both my practical skills and my sense of purpose, giving me the knowledge to help schools reimagine overlooked spaces as rich learning environments.
Studying practical horticulture changed the way I see the world. It sharpened my eye for plants and gave me a deeper understanding of how gardens work. The balance of theory and practice made everyday gardening richer, more informed and far more enjoyable, and it gave me a solid foundation to keep learning.
For anyone thinking about studying for an RHS Qualification, I would say it is a great way to build confidence, develop practical skills and discover where horticulture could take you. For me, it turned a personal interest into meaningful work that supports both people and plants to grow.
