RHS Level 1 Award in Practical Horticulture

A practical-based qualification to grow a foundation level understanding of horticulture

Who is this qualification for?

Children in full-time education. Aged 14 - 19

Adults with additional learning needs. Over the age of 19 and benefit from assisted learning

Schools. Develop basic horticultural skills after school

Families. Grow an interest in horticulture with this foundation level qualification

Modules, learning outcomes and assessment

Each module is assessed by a range of practical activities timetabled and conducted at an RHS approved centre throughout the qualification

Preparing soil for sowing and planting
  • Select and use the correct tools and equipment for preparing soil
  • Clear a site of unwanted debris
  • Load, transport and spread bulky organic matter
  • Cultivate soil by hand
  • Know how to dispose of waste appropriately
Soil testing
  • Understand the reasons for soil testing
  • Collect and prepare soil samples for testing
  • Identify the textural class of soils
  • Determine the pH of soils
Assist with the propagation of plants from seed
  • Assist with preparing to propagate plants from seed
  • Sow seed under supervision
  • Work safely
Assist with the vegetative propagation of plants
  • Assist with collecting, preparing and establishing propagation material for plants and grow in the right environment
  • Work safely
Assist with planting and establishing plants
  • Assist with planting
  • Assist with any additional activities required to establish plants
  • Work safely
Identification of a range of common garden plants, weeds, pests and diseases
  • Know how plants are botanically named
  • Identify a range of plants, pests and diseases

After the qualification

Further learning

You will have gained a range of practical horticultural skills which form the foundation for progression to level 2 courses in horticulture or entry onto various horticultural training programmes.

RHS Level 2 Qualifications

The Plantsman December 2018 cover

Useful documents and information

Download the qualification specification

Practical qualification information

Enrol now: find a learning provider

Find a distance learning provider or study centre near you

"Can I have more botanical plant names to learn as homework please?"

Jack P. – South Wigston High School

More for young learners and adults

Level 1 Introductory Award in Practical Horticulture

Level 1 Introductory Award in Practical Horticulture

School visits

School visits

Family activities

Family activities

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.