This horticulture course, RHS Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Plant Growth and Development, can be taken on its own or with the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture to gain the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles & Practices of Horticulture.
Booking date is TBC. Please contact [email protected] to be added to the waiting list and for further info.
The theory course makes up one half of the new RHS Level 2 Certificate in Horticultural Principles & Practices.
It consists of two theory units, each of which is further divided into four topics, as seen below.
In addition to these, there are also topics that span the entire qualification. These include health and safety, sustainability, best practice, and equality and diversity
Unit One:
The theory certificate will be covered in one year of teaching at Hever Castle & Gardens, and starts from September 2026. The course will also require home study and revision time.
Written theory examinations take place in October, February and June each year and are sat on site at Hever Castle & Gardens.
Exam papers for the new theory course have been designed to rely less on traditional recall skills, and more on assessing the application of students’ knowledge, with distinction, merit and pass being possible grade outcomes.
Resits of examinations are available but will incur extra costs.
The course is taught 4.5 hours a week over 28 weeks with one visit and two further examination dates, which are set by the RHS in October, February and June.
The course follows the academic timetable, comprising three separate terms with half term breaks within each.
Tuition Fee: £950 to include exam fee (but NOT re-sits for which the RHS currently charges up to £85, this is subject to change) and an annual membership to Hever Castle & Gardens for the duration of the course.
Please book online. If you have any questions please email [email protected].
A cancellation fee of £200 will apply if you withdraw two weeks before the start of the course. After this time if you withdraw from the course there is no reimbursement of fees after the start of the course.
Our four tutors have taught horticulture, including the RHS courses, for many years and have worked in various sectors of the horticultural industry. They are all passionate about plants and love to share their enthusiasm with others. They are thrilled to be offering horticulture courses in the beautiful and inspiring setting of Hever Castle with its splendid plant collection.
RHS Level theory-based qualification:
RHS Level 2 – Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development
RHS Level 2 practical-based qualification:
RHS Level 2 – Certificate in Practical Horticulture
Those who successfully complete all the necessary units for the two level theory-based qualification and the practical-based qualification will gain the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles & Practices of Horticulture.
The RHS Qualification Level 2 in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture is well recognised within the industry. Students who achieve it are well placed to progress onto further courses, or into employment. The course is ideal for the dedicated amateur gardener who wishes to extend his or her knowledge and achieve a nationally recognised qualification. It is ideal for beginners, or for those with some experience.
Achievement on this course is assessed with nationally set written examinations and assessments. We recommend that students take the examinations.
There are no prerequisites for entry to the qualification other than a love of horticulture and a dedication to sit the examinations.
Always check the latest details before travelling. Hever Castle reserves the right to close all or part of the Castle, grounds, catering outlets and activities. Please note that use of partner offers may be restricted on some dates, please check before booking.
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.
