RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture

Topics covered on the RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture include:

• Plant knowledge
• Creating planted areas
• Maintaining planted areas
• Plant health
• Productive growing
• Protected growing
• Ecological and sustainable plantings
• Landscaping materials

This course is assessed in a variety of ways, including formative assessment of skills by your tutors, a range of summative short answer tests, and professional discussions and direct observation by RHS Assessors.

In order to achieve this qualification, learners must complete and attain (pass, merit, distinction):

• Practical Competence Assessment Test
• Online Competence Assessment Test

The RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture is ideal for those who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in horticulture to apply in a professional setting. This course can also help individuals to specialise in particular garden areas and landscapes.

It is strongly recommended that applicants hold either the full RHS Level 2 Qualification (both practical and theory) or demonstrable experience in the sector. You may be asked to show your certification during the application process.

Applications for this course will be reviewed by Winterbourne House and Garden’s Horticultural education team, who may invite you for an in-person conversation to ensure the course you have applied for meets your experience and aligns with what you hope to achieve from studying with us.  

Highly regarded by horticultural employers, the RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture can help you to progress further in your career and reach higher-level roles within the horticultural sector. Roles often include horticultural supervisor, team leader, and retail manager.

The RHS Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture is taught by tutors from Rudge Wood Horticulture CIC.

Get to know Darren and Helen

Darren Rudge is a respected horticultural educator, designer and broadcaster. With a career spanning over three decades, Darren has taught countless students in vocational and community settings. He is also known for his media work, sharing expert advice on BBC radio and beyond.

As a Professional Associate for RHS Qualifications, Darren examines and verifies practical qualifications nationally, ensuring the next generation of horticulturalists meet the highest standards. Alongside this, he runs a successful garden design consultancy, working with landscapers and contractors to create innovative outdoor spaces.

Helen Wood brings a wealth of expertise in horticulture, teaching and assessment. Since 2014, Helen has worked with RHS Qualifications as a Professional Associate, where she plays a key role in marking, setting exam papers, and leading the Level 2 theory team.

Her passion for education and community-led projects has shaped the development of inclusive training and horticultural initiatives. Through her consultancy, Helen supports individuals, organisations and communities to design and sustain accessible green spaces that bring long-term benefits.

When studying at Winterbourne, you will receive tuition from horticultural industry experts, as well as additional support from Winterbourne’s team of gardeners and a dedicated Learning Officer. You will be taught in our purpose-built education building, the Winterbourne Centre for Horticulture, and throughout the course you will practise your skills in our fantastic teaching garden, potting shed, and other outdoor facilities.

All students studying at Winterbourne will receive a Learner Membership to the house and garden throughout their studies. You are also eligible to apply for RHS student membership.

As a member of Rudge Wood’s learning community, you have the opportunity to develop links with horticultural employers.

Students studying at Winterbourne House and Garden are not classified as University of Birmingham students and therefore do not have access to the university’s general student support and benefits.