To do jobs at this level, you need to gain some technical, practical or scientific skills.
You can do this through an apprenticeship or while you are working. Jobs include garden designer, horticultural technician, senior gardener, groundsperson and garden centre supervisor.
Case study
I studied A levels at school. Having asked for some careers advice from a relative in the industry, I then looked for an apprenticeship where I could learn on the job...
Chris Duggan, a grounds maintenance contractor
Example jobs
Green keeper
Maintaining golf courses using specialist skills and tools.
Horticultural technician
Maintaining plant displays in offices, hotels and other public places.
Horticulture estimator
Working out the costs for gardening and landscaping jobs.
Things you need to know
Typical working conditions
Jobs in this area can involve working outdoors in all weathers but some may include a mixture of outdoor and indoor work.
Qualifications needed
Useful GCSEs to have are biology and chemistry, environmental science, English and maths or relevant BTECs or NVQs such as a level 2 Diploma in Horticulture taken at a specialist horticultural college. Short courses in topics such as chain saw management, tree felling and pesticide applications will help increase your chances of promotion.
Career path
You could progress to management jobs such as garden centre manager or head groundsperson. You could be eligible for more senior jobs after gaining experience and also by taking extra qualifications while you are working such as Levels 1 and 2 in horticulture, amenity horticulture or trees and timber.
Useful links
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LANTRA
Information, training and support for the land-based and environmental sector
Grow
Careers in horticulture