Jessica – Horticulture

JESSICA

Horticulture

The course is so broad and focuses on Horticulture for industry, it opens so many doors. Every day I am able to share what I’ve learnt at Sparsholt with my family, and I am glad I chose to study something I really like and enjoy. 

I really enjoy working outside so when I was looking for a career change from the Royal Mail, that was a priority. I love being in gardens and surrounded by plants so thought why don’t I work with them? My Mum recommended Sparsholt since she had studied there, and the chance to be part of RHS Chelsea offered an opportunity I don’t think you’d get anywhere else. 

The course is so broad and focuses on Horticulture for industry, it opens so many doors. A highlight was learning how to use machinery – I was intimidated at first, but the staff made us feel safe and gave me so much confidence. Becoming skilled enough to use a diesel-powered rotavator that is a lot heavier than I am and to use a diamond disc cutter is just incredible. I’ve also learnt how to look at gardens differently, scaling things up for larger clients and considering their needs. 

The tutors have so much knowledge and make the course run just right. Being here really encouraged me to learn more and ask as many questions as I like, there is always someone at Sparsholt who knows the answer. The site itself is incredible and the staff are so friendly, and I felt welcomed and accepted. 

I thought I wanted to work in historical garden maintenance but through Sparsholt have found my place in nursery propagation. I love the idea of working in a plant nursery and have learnt so much about how a business works and how I can make the most of my new skills. 

Every day I am able to share what I’ve learnt at Sparsholt with my family, and I am glad I chose to study something I really like and enjoy.