Programme Aim

The aim of this programme is to provide students with the opportunity to develop practical horticulture and landscaping skills within a supportive learning environment. Through hands-on activities, students will gain experience in a range of essential horticultural tasks, helping them build confidence, develop employability skills and gain an understanding of the horticulture and grounds maintenance industries.

The programme encourages teamwork, responsibility, problem-solving and independent working through practical outdoor activities and project-based learning.

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The Benefits of Outdoor Learning

At Keats, we recognise that every student learns differently. Our practical, outdoor approach provides opportunities for students to learn through experience, develop new interests and achieve success in a supportive environment.

Horticulture and landscaping activities encourage students to work together, follow instructions, overcome challenges and take pride in their achievements. Working outdoors also provides opportunities to develop communication, resilience, organisation and problem-solving skills that can be transferred to everyday life and future employment.

By taking part in meaningful, hands-on projects, students can develop greater confidence, improve their engagement with learning and recognise the value of their individual contributions.

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Student Outcomes and Progression

By completing the programme, students will develop a range of practical horticultural and landscaping skills, alongside a foundation in garden maintenance, planting and landscaping techniques.

Initially, the programme will be delivered this academic year as part of the Preparation for Adulthood course , with the intention of introducing a City & Guilds Level 1 Practical Horticulture Skills qualification from September 2027. This qualification is designed for individuals who wish to develop practical gardening and landscaping skills and explore opportunities for further training or a career in horticulture.

The qualification focuses on practical skills, with learners demonstrating their competence through ongoing practical assessments.

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Skills and Learning Opportunities

Learners will develop a broad range of horticultural and landscaping skills through practical activities, including:

• Preparing for sowing or planting under supervision.

• Planting container-grown plants.

• Preparing soil and applying organic mulch.

• Watering beds, borders and container-grown plants.

• Using a wheeled rotary mower.

• Laying paving slabs.

• Laying paving blocks on sand.

In addition to these activities, students will play an active role in the design, construction and development of the horticulture unit at Keats. This will provide valuable experience in a real working environment, allowing learners to apply their skills to meaningful projects while developing teamwork, confidence and an understanding of workplace expectations.

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Developing Employability Skills

Alongside practical horticultural skills, students will have opportunities to develop the personal and professional qualities valued by employers. These include punctuality, communication, teamwork, following instructions, taking responsibility for equipment and completing tasks to an appropriate standard.

Working on real projects will help students understand the importance of health and safety, working cooperatively and taking pride in the quality of their work. These experiences will support their preparation for further education, vocational training and employment.

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Future Opportunities

The programme aims to help students recognise their potential, develop transferable skills and explore future opportunities in horticulture, gardening, landscaping and grounds maintenance.

By combining practical learning, personal development and opportunities for vocational progression, Keats aims to provide students with a positive foundation for their next steps, helping them build confidence, discover new interests and work towards a more independent and successful future.