Horticulture - level 3 apprenticeship framework
This framework sets out the standards and criteria you must meet to complete the apprenticeship programme and receive your apprenticeship certificate for level three horticulture. This is the only level 3 training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.
About the framework
This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of level 3 apprenticeship training to achieve qualified status within the agricultural sector.
If you successfully complete the apprenticeship, you'll be awarded a level 3 qualification and recognition as a qualified person to carry out one of the occupational roles (see below) within the industry sector.
Mandatory outcomes
Achievement of a level 3 apprenticeship in horticulture will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.
You must complete the combined competence and knowledge-based qualification, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.
Mandatory essential skills
To successfully complete the apprenticeship, you must achieve the following essential skills qualifications as part of the apprenticeship, or already hold a recognised equivalent:
- application of number – level 2
- communication – level 2
- information and communication technology – level 2
However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.
Competency and knowledge qualifications
Apprentices need to complete the following combined competency-based and knowledge-based qualification.
Eligibility and entry to the programme
You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme.
Entry to the level 3 apprenticeship is by progression from the apprenticeshipsni level 2 framework in horticulture.
Employers may also apply their own criteria at the recruitment stage.
You may also enter the level 3 apprenticeship, subject to assessment by the training contractor and employer, if you have:
- already gained significant work experience in your occupational area, which could be considered as meeting the requirements of the level 2 horticulture framework and can show the capacity to achieve a level 3 standard
- previously achieved a relevant level 2 recognised vocational qualification that is a mandatory requirement of the Level 2 apprenticeshipsni horticulture framework
See also the DfE operational requirements.
Duration
Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.
Related knowledge
For this framework, you must complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from the training contractor that the ERR has been completed.
Enhancements
It is strongly recommended that apprentices do a one-day emergency first aid course approved by the health and safety executive.
To enhance the apprenticeship and facilitate employment in the industry, you are also recommended to complete at least one of the following accredited or nationally recognised occupational tests:
- safe use of pesticides (PA1)
- basic food hygiene (FSA approved)
- cylinder and rotary operated pedestrian mowers
- safe use of pedestrian controlled two-wheeled tractors
- chainsaw and related operations
- safe use of hedge trimmers
- safe manual handling operator
- forklift truck operations
- tractor driving and related operations
- driving a vehicle with a trailer
- safe use of powered cultivators
- stump grinding operations
- safe use of turf maintenance equipment
- ride-on mowers
- all-terrain vehicle handling
- wood chipping/ chipper shredding
- CAT training
- materials handler certificate
- brushwood chipper operations
- safe use of abrasive wheel machines
- integrated pollution prevention control certificate
As enhancements are not required for apprenticeship certification, no additional funding is available for completion.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the training contractor/ college to make sure all components of this framework are delivered in line with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.
The apprentice must be employed from day one.
Further information
The content of this framework (Framework No 306 Issue 06: 03/21) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy.
For more information, contact: