NOCN
Level 1
QN: 600/5890/0
Curriculum Active
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Official qualification regulated by Ofqual, awarded by NOCN. Classified as a Vocationally-Related Qualification. Total guided learning hours: 144 hours.
Qualification Level
Level 1
Awarding Body
NOCN
Syllabus Units
8 Units
Guided Hours
144 hrs
Instant access to interactive lessons, quizzes, and spaced revision.
Course Syllabus & Study Modules
Complete breakdown of verified curriculum topics and learning objectives.
1
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Health and Safety in a Practical Environment
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be aware of relevant health and safety requirements, procedures and equipment., Recognise and manage risk by following safe working practices.
2
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Pest Control
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Prepare for pest control tasks by selecting appropriate tools and materials.
- Explain the necessity of pest control in horticultural environments.
- Identify common pests affecting horticultural crops.
- Describe different methods of pest control.
- Carry out pest control procedures safely and effectively.
- Comply with health and safety procedures during pest control activities.
- Maintain a clean and tidy work area throughout pest control operations.
3
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Plant Propagation
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Demonstrate correct preparation of seed trays and indoor sowing techniques for a range of species.
- Perform pricking out of seedlings into individual cells or pots without root damage.
- Select, prepare, and insert stem cuttings using appropriate tools and rooting media.
- Pot up rooted cuttings, plug plants, or large seedlings with care to avoid disturbance.
- Apply correct irrigation methods to planted containers to maintain optimal moisture levels.
- Maintain a clean and tidy work area before, during, and after propagation activities to minimise pest and disease risks.
4
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Plant Pruning
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Identify common reasons for pruning, including health, safety, and aesthetic improvement.
- Select appropriate pruning tools for different plant types and tasks.
- Perform basic pruning cuts, such as heading back and thinning, on a shrub.
- Describe the correct timing for pruning deciduous and evergreen plants.
- Demonstrate safe working practices when using secateurs and loppers.
5
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Plant Selection
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Know the characteristics and uses of plants., Be able to select plants for specific uses and locations., Understand the establishment and maintenance needs of plants.
6
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Understanding Soils and Growing Media
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Identify common soil types (clay, sand, loam) by texture and appearance.
- Describe the purpose and composition of at least three different growing media.
- Demonstrate how to prepare a seed tray with appropriate sowing medium.
- Explain the importance of soil structure for root development and water retention.
- Perform a simple soil pH test and interpret the result.
7
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Using and Maintaining Horticultural Hand Tools
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Identify potential hazards associated with using and maintaining specific hand tools
- Select the appropriate hand tool for a given horticultural task
- Demonstrate correct cleaning and lubrication techniques for shears and secateurs
- Inspect tools for signs of damage and determine necessary repairs
- Safely sharpen blades using a whetstone or file
- Arrange tools in a storage area to prevent damage and facilitate ease of access
8
NOCN Level 1 Award in Horticulture
Weed Control
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Identify at least five common weed species from samples or images and describe their key characteristics.
- Explain the negative effects of unchecked weed growth on soil, crops, and ornamental plants.
- Prepare appropriate tools, materials, and PPE for a specific weed control task.
- Select and justify a suitable weed control method for a given scenario, considering environmental and practical factors.
- Demonstrate safe manual removal of weeds in a live setting, following standard operating procedures.
- Apply a post-emergence herbicide correctly under supervision, adhering to product label instructions and COSHH regulations.
- Maintain a clean and orderly work area throughout and after weed control operations.
Regulatory & Verification Details
- Qualification Number (QN)
- 600/5890/0
- Regulated Status
- Available to learners
- Awarding Body
- NOCN
- Qualification Type
- Vocationally-Related Qualification
- Operational Start
- Jul 2012