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Gardening Through the Seasons - Award

Course code: P09411

Subject area: Learning for Wellbeing

Study level: Part Time

Course level: U

Course details

Course time:

10:00 - 12:00

Days of week:

Thursday

Course date:

8th Jan 2026 - 26th Mar 2026

Course location:

Abingdon Campus

Contact details

Phone:

01235 555 585

This Entry Level 3 horticulture course provides hands-on experience in the college’s thriving allotment and polytunnel, working in all weather with classroom support. Learn propagation, composting, and plant care.

"Facilities at Abingdon Campus:- Vending machines and Costa Coffee shop (open until 7pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday term time only).- Watercoolers available, making it easy to refill your water bottle.- Free parking. Please note due to half term there will be no session on 19/02/2026."

This practical, hands-on course is ideal for beginners looking to gain confidence in horticulture while working in an allotment and polytunnel, in all weather conditions, with classroom-based support.

1. Working on the College Allotment

- Grow and identify flowers, vegetables, and herbs.

- Recognise and manage common weeds.

- Carry out seasonal gardening tasks in all weather conditions.

2. Propagation & Growing in the Polytunnel

- Sow seeds in soil and seed trays in a controlled environment.

- Propagate plants from cuttings and division.

- Maintain ideal conditions for plant growth, including temperature and humidity control.

3. Soil Preparation, Composting & Sustainability

- Use hand tools to prepare and maintain growing beds.

- Improve soil health with composting techniques and organic matter.

- Learn sustainable gardening practices and waste reduction.

4. Caring for Plants & Maintaining the Growing Space

- Thin, prick out, and transplant seedlings.

- Water, weed, and manage plant health effectively.

- Support biodiversity and eco-friendly gardening techniques.

5. Classroom-Based Learning & Theory

- Explore plant biology, soil science, and pest management.

- Understand seasonal planning and sustainable gardening principles.

- Reflect on practical work and develop gardening knowledge.

What next?
Gardening Through the Seasons - Spring.

Keep growing your skills with advanced allotment planning, crop rotation techniques, and sustainable gardening methods. Consider joining a specialist workshop or mentoring new gardeners in the community.

Entry criteria
No previous knowledge or experience necessary. All welcome.
Fee information
As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

19+ Fee:

£90.00

19+ Reduced Fee:

£0.00

Learning & method assessment
This is both a theory based and practical course. Learners will be able to participate in weekly, classroom activities to build and share knowledge alongside their peers as well as working in the garden to develop their practical gardening skills and learn new techniques. There is no exam attached to this course.

As this is a non-accredited course, there is no formal qualification. To track your progress and achievement you will be required to complete a short document.