The existing qualifications do not align with the skills required on the job.

The existing Amenity programmes are very management focussed. Significant changes to the programme are currently underway, with a focus on giving students more choice and more focus on botany, and ensuring the qualifications are achievable.  

Engagement with the Nursery industry has told us that qualifications with a greater botany focus are required, as there is a perception that the current generation of botanists in the industry are retiring and they are not being replaced at the same rate; the industry is interested in shifting to more apprenticeships and on the job training to fill this gap. 

A new Sports Turf apprenticeship is also planned to start in 2024, which will require changes to the existing level 3 and level 4 qualifications. We will work with the industry to explore the implications for qualifications.