SVQ 2 Production Horticulture at SCQF level 5

SVQs are based on National Occupational Standards. SQA works in partnership with other organisations to ensure that National Occupational Standards (NOS) are relevant to the current and future needs of Scottish industries.

The SVQ 2 in Production Horticulture at SCQF level 5 is a re-accredited qualification.

Assessment is normally carried out in the workplace, which minimises any time learners would need to be away from their work and allows learners to generate evidence based on the actual work they are carrying out.

Learners can progress to a range of qualifications including Level 3 SVQs in related areas or a range of Horticulture Higher National Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs and HNDs).

The SVQ can be offered in any of the following modes:

• full-time
• part-time (eg day-release)
• open and distance learning

The achievement of other qualifications such as the National Certificate An Introduction to Horticulture at SCQF level 4 can contribute towards the underpinning knowledge required for the SVQ.

This SVQ is suitable for:

• learners who may have just left school
• individuals who are currently in employment and who wish to obtain a formal qualification
• employees who wish to obtain short, continuing professional development courses

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre.

Candidates should be in a job or placement where they are carrying out relevant tasks and responsibilities which allow then to gather the required evidence.

No prior qualifications are required to undertake this qualification, although experience in/knowledge of subject would be an advantage.

The level 5 award could provide progression to:

• an HNC/HND in Horticulture or a related area
• an SVQ 3 in Production Horticulture, Landscaping or Parks, Gardens and Green Space at SCQF level 6
• degree-level study at a higher education institution
• employment in the horticulture/landscaping sector at a more senior supervisory level

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will have to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Guide to Approval.

For general information on how to assess this qualification, please refer to the document Guidance on how to assess SVQs. For detailed guidance on how to assess this particular SVQ, please refer to the Assessment Strategy.