This qualification contains the requirements for award of the National Certificate in Horticulture (Introductory) (Level 2) [Ref: 1013] and the National Certificate in Horticulture (Level 4) with optional strands in Amenity Horticulture, Fruit Production, Landscape, Nursery Production, Postharvest, Viticulture, and Vegetable Production [Ref: 1014]. It represents the next step on the career pathway for people working in horticulture.
This qualification has been designed to be assessed in the workplace and to recognise the applied skills, knowledge and experience required by employers in the horticulture sector.
All Modern Apprentices and trainees intending to complete a three-year apprenticeship in horticulture will enrol in a programme leading to this qualification.
People who achieve this qualification have the ability to undertake a wide range of horticultural tasks at an advanced tradesperson level, with extensive operational knowledge and skill in one or more sectors of the horticulture industry.
Holders of this qualification have specialised in at least one sector of the industry, and achieved one strand of the qualification. To increase skills and knowledge, and their employment opportunities, they may choose to work and train in two sectors or more of the industry, and achieve two strands or more of the qualification.
The elective structure of the qualification allows employers the flexibility to tailor programmes to meet individual skill needs that reflect the diverse roles in the horticulture industry. Employers are advised to consider safety requirements which may include standards in driving, chainsaws, first aid, and safety in the workplace.
Primary Industry Training Organisation supports the concept of continuing and lifelong education, and encourages students to consider future training options. Credit transfer arrangements have been included in the National Certificate in Horticulture (Advanced) (Level 4) with strands [Ref: 1015] to provide linkage and progression into horticulture programmes at Lincoln University and Massey University.
