YMCA Training – in association with the Monday Charitable Trust - is offering a free Level 1 City & Guilds qualification in basic horticulture for people with disabilities. After a successful first course, we’re recruiting for the next one, which will run in Salford from Friday 31st January for would-be landscapers across the region.
YMCA’s practical horticulture course gives people living with learning disabilities, mental health issues or a physical disability, the opportunity to learn professional gardening in an inclusive and intimate environment. They’ll gain a free, nationally recognised industry qualification and support into work.
The first course covered turf care, plant and weed identification, plant production, pruning, fertilisers, soil preparation and hanging basket production. Depending on the severity of the disability, a work placement is also included. Students have been learning about horticulture both outdoors and inside the classroom to develop their skills. The course is 80% practical.