The course is suitable for both complete beginners and those wishing to develop very basic skills by undertaking an introductory course. The course is designed to promote basic garden design skills that can be used in your own garden or as a basis for commercial garden design. You will learn site surveying, principles of design, increase plant knowledge, drawing skills and hard and soft landscaping techniques. All these skills will be looked at in the context of the overall design with consideration given to the safe usage of tools, and health and safety in general. Students will undertake three design projects during the course (under the guidance of the tutor). The qualification is the NCFE Level 1 Award in Garden Design. Successful completion of 60 hours of study/practical work and the production of a course portfolio demonstrating the work undertaken. The work will all be assessed by the course tutor and there are no examinations. This is a three unit course - Unit 1 - You will extend your knowledge, understanding and use of methods in the process of garden design. You will learn to use a range of tools that can be used to create your ideas and designs. You will learn and develop your techniques and how to follow appropriate health and safety requirements. Unit 2 - You will develop your work creatively, building on your ideas and learning from unit 1. You will draw on other appropriate sources to develop and inform your own ideas. You will record your ongoing work and how it develops - evaluating your progress to date. Unit 3 - You will use your knowledge of equipment, materials and ideas to develop a final piece of work for internal assessment. You can learn more about the qualification and its structure by visiting the awarding bodies website at You will develop a basic skill in the craft. You will be provided with underpinning knowledge of the craft process and a sound foundation for further study. You will understand how to use materials, tools and equipment effectively and safely. You will learn from a mixture of theory and practical work, but the course will be essentially practical with as much 'hands on' as is possible. There are no further career/progression opportunities at this time.