We are pleased to announce delivery of the new FETAC Level 5 and 6 Horticulture Awards starting September 2013, in the unique learning environment and college community at Kinsale. Level 5 is delivered in the first year; successful completion of this award, or similar qualification from another institution, is required for entry into the second year and the Horticulture Level 6 Award. Entry into the first year Level 5 is on a first-come-first-served basis; entry into the second year Horticulture Level 6 is by interview selection.
The course is a mixture of classroom-based talks, practical activities, site visits, masterclasses from a range of visiting specialists and group project work.
The practical aspect of the course involves the development of the college grounds along Permaculture design principles, including landscaping and green building techniques. In previous years students have constructed straw-bale, cordwood and timber-frame buildings; planted edible hedges; developed kitchen gardens, forest gardens and tree nurseries; made a pond and created living willow sculptures.
The emphasis of the course is on practical skills that students can apply in their own lives and gain professional qualifications to access employment, developing their careers or continuing to 3rd level courses in horticulture, landscape design or related subjects.
A unique feature of the college is the remarkable amphitheater which is used by the college drama course for performances several times through the year. Horticulture students will continue to help develop and improve on this and other college buildings through the course.
The course is useful to anyone interested in landscape design, organic horticulture, community development, environmental education and sustainable resource management, and can lead to work or further training in any of these areas.
Source: Kinsale College of Further Education – Sustainable Horticulture Courses at Kinsale College
