Commercial horticulturist : Training

Training can vary from minimal on-the-job training to well-structured graduate training schemes, such as the Management Development Services (MDS)  group training scheme.

Some employers provide opportunities to take management qualifications, health and safety training, training in the use of chemicals and pesticides and, increasingly, training in the use of biological alternatives in pest and disease control.

Writtle College  offers a range of postgraduate taught and research-based courses as well as work-based courses, tailored courses and continuing professional development programmes. The Horticultural Development Company (HDC)  offers up to two awards for postgraduate research studentships each year.

Graduates aiming to become technical consultants or senior managers in crop production should look for employers who will provide the training necessary to obtain BASIS (Registration) Limited  and Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme (FACTS)  qualifications. BASIS is an independent organisation set up by the agricultural and horticultural industries to provide training and maintain professional standards in the pesticides industry relating to storage and transport. Standards of staff competence are also covered.