About this course
- Entry year: 2012/13
- Course code: VK33(F)
- Level: Undergraduate
- Tariff points: 80-120
- Department: Geography and Environmental Management
- Campus: Hestercombe House, Taunton
- Duration: Three years part-time
- Delivery: Part-time
- Programme leader: John Horsey
Introduction
In this country we are very fortunate in having access to a wide range of heritage gardens and designed landscapes, consequently there is a growing interest from the public in visiting them. This course aims to train those who wish to work in these gardens, either on the basis of full time employment or to help the growing numbers of part time or volunteers on whom the gardens increasingly depend.
It is equally suitable for those already working in the industry, who wish to expand their skills and knowledge by undergoing professional development.
With increasing visitor numbers it is important that the visitor is well received and informed about the heritage industry as well as the individual gardens. This course will impart skills and knowledge relating to the history of the gardens and plants as well as the management and development of the gardens.
The course is based at Hestercombe Gardens near Taunton which is a classic designed garden with many individual composite gardens as well as a wide range of trees, shrubs and other plantings. The main landscaped garden was designed by the well known partnership of Gertrude Jekyll and Edwin Lutyens. This proves an excellent venue for a course of this specification, there will also be a range of visits to other local historic gardens to complement the learning process.
Structure
Content
Year 1 (part-time programme)
This year introduces you to the heritage industry within the United Kingdom, looking at the range and diversity of heritage parks and gardens. You will understand the importance, ownerships and philosophy of the industry as well as the range of supporting bodies such as plant organisations, and aspects of education and interpretation.
You will look at a range of non woody plants which are utilised in heritage gardens, considering their origins, introductions, garden context, growing conditions and links with different historic styles.
The styles will be considered from 1700 onwards, reflecting social, political and aesthetic trends. You will look at the English Landscape Garden through to more contemporary styles.
You will also develop an understanding of the garden environment considering the relationship of plants to soils, growing conditions and garden animals, whether damaging or beneficial.
Year 2
This year will look at a further range of plants but this time those of a woody nature such as trees, shrubs and hedges.
It will also consider more garden styles from the earliest known gardens through to 1700, with more emphasis on the influences of gardens from other parts of the world. You will look at the production of fruit, flowers and vegetables in walled gardens, starting with their historical development tracing their success, looking at their present day revival, and considering present day husbandry.
You will also develop an understanding of the garden environment considering the relationship of plants to soils, growing conditions and garden animals, whether damaging or beneficial.
Year 3
You will examine the management of heritage gardens and examine the workings of the historic garden industry, considering legislation, visitor management, resource management, and funding with financial and administrative records.
You will examine garden ecology and nature conservation as many of these gardens are home to a range of wildlife some of which is protected and in need of conservation. You will examine habitats, habitat surveying techniques, legislation and ecological principles.
There is a module on the conservation of garden buildings and features looking at their management and restoration as well as their role in the designed landscape.
You will also undertake an individual project. This will be a chosen topic based on your work placement.
Teaching and learning
Teaching methods include seminars, lectures, discussions, group project work, plant identifications and garden visits.
The lecturing staff will provide a friendly relaxed learning environment. They are active practitioners within the heritage industry aware of modern advances and developments.
Assessment
Methods of assessment will include assignment and project work as well as examinations and tests under controlled conditions.
There will be ongoing plant identification tests.
Special Features
Placements
You will need to undertake work in a heritage garden to connect your learning and allow you to apply the techniques and principles discussed during the course to a work place environment.
We will offer support and advice on work placements and you will be visited by a tutor to help build a strong relationship between the student, employer and academic study.
Study facilities
The course is offered at Hestercombe House near Taunton, where we have excellent study facilities, internet and e-mail access as well as access to the range of gardens. Students will also have full access to the wide range of books and resources at the University of the West of England as well as at Yeovil College.
Careers/further study
This course has been developed in full consultation with representatives from the heritage horticulture industry and so will equip you with skills and knowledge required for a career in this field.
You could also progress to an Honour's degree.
Entry
Typical offers
- Tariff points: 80-120
- Specific subjects: One A-level or equivalent in Biology, Environmental Science or Horticulture related subject.
- Access: Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma; achievement of level 3 credits in; Biology, Environmental Science or Horticulture related subject. Achievement of level 2 credits in English Language
Entry requirements
A minimum of three GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language.
plus
- One A-level or equivalent qualification in Biology, Environmental Science or Horticulture related subject, or
- Relevant employment or voluntary experience
For further information
- Telephone: +44 (0)1935 423921
- E-mail: john.horsey@yeovil.ac.uk
Page last updated 14 December 2011