Sparsholt College is celebrating success at the South West Regional Final of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture’s Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition
First place was awarded to Oscar Mercer, a former Sparsholt apprentice, now working on a private estate on the Hampshire–Berkshire border. Oscar will go on to represent the South West at the Grand Final in Rochdale on Saturday 16 May 2026, competing against the very best young horticulturists from across the country.
Second place was secured by Sugden, who is currently in Year 1 of Sparsholt College’s T Level Ornamental Horticulture pathway, showcasing the depth of talent coming through the college’s full-time provision.
Run by the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, the Young Horticulturist of the Year competition is open to those under 30 and is recognised nationally as a platform for developing future industry leaders, combining technical knowledge, practical expertise and professional ambition.
These achievements highlight Sparsholt College’s strong reputation for delivering high-quality, industry-led horticultural education that prepares students and apprentices for successful careers across the land-based sector.
To find out more about horticulture courses at Sparsholt College, including apprenticeships and full-time pathways, visit: sparsholt.ac.uk/subject/horticulture/