OverviewAbout this course
Gain practical skills to work in a production nursery, propagate plants at scale and manage production programs. Graduate ready to work as a production horticulturist, retail nursery tradesperson or lead hand in a production nursery.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Manage the production of growing plants for retail nurseries
Plan production programs needed to run a production nursery
Grow a range of specialised plants including bonsais, topiaries and sculptural plants
Analyse potting mix and implement plant nutritional programs
Transport, store and apply chemicals to control pests, weeds and diseases
Maintain pressurised irrigation systems
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally recognised trade qualification at Certificate III level
An AQF3 Chemical Accreditation from the NSW Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
Experience implementing plant nutrition and propagation programs
Knowledge of growing nursery and specialist plants and maintaining their health
Skills to apply chemicals to control pests, weeds and diseases
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
Apprenticeship
Be employed as an apprentice in the industry
Register with an Apprenticeship Network Provider who will support your application
Non-apprenticeship
There are no entry requirements for this course. You can enrol now.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
Relevant employment or access to a nursery workplace environment to prove your skills
An intermediate level of physical fitness, as this is a highly practical course
The ability to safely operate machinery or equipment, accurately identify flora, fauna, pests, and diseases associated with plants, interpret landforms and rough topography
The ability to read and interpret maps, and accurately interpret chemical labels, using any necessary assistive technologies if needed
The ability to provide your own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including including leather boots, long pants, a broad-rimmed hat and a long-sleeved shirt
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 10 high school level
TAFE NSW may ask you to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test. This helps us to understand your individual study needs, to design an individualised plan that supports your study success and ensures your LLN skills match the demands of the course.
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: production horticulturist, general horticulturist, retail nursery tradesperson and lead hand in a production nursery.
Licensing
Most retail nursery businesses prioritise candidates who hold their Class C Drivers Licence. We recommend obtaining this licence before you graduate to secure employment.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study0 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate III in Nursery Operations (Nursery Production) does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Further study1 Course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study2 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate III in Nursery Operations (Nursery Production) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 16 units of competency, including 9 core and 7 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Transport and store chemicalsAHCCHM304
Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseasesAHCCHM307
Troubleshoot irrigation systemsAHCIRG338
Maintain nursery plantsAHCNSY308
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community