Parks and Gardens

This qualification gives a vocational outcome in gardens and parks. The gardens and parks industry anticipates this eligibility to be done to meet job outcomes as of this level.No certification, legislative or certificate requirements affect this eligibility during publication.

The Parks and Gardens program at Bendigo TAFE offers comprehensive training designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in landscape management, horticulture, and park maintenance. This program covers a wide range of practical and theoretical topics, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively to the development and maintenance of public and private green spaces. Throughout the course, students will learn about plant identification, landscape design principles, soil management, sustainable practices, and the operation of various gardening and landscaping machinery. Emphasis is placed on safety procedures, environmental sustainability, and effective project management to prepare students for real-world challenges in the industry.

The curriculum includes modules on designing and maintaining parks, gardens, and recreational areas, as well as understanding the ecological impact of landscaping choices. Students will gain hands-on experience through practical sessions and on-site projects, providing an opportunity to apply learned skills in real environments. The program also focuses on the importance of client communication, teamwork, and project planning, which are essential skills within the industry. Graduates of this program will be equipped to work in a variety of roles, such as landscape gardener, parks maintenance worker, horticulturist, or garden designer.

Designed for those passionate about the natural environment and sustainable practices, the Parks and Gardens program integrates modern techniques with traditional horticultural knowledge. Upon completion, students will have the competence to create and maintain aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable outdoor spaces, contributing positively to community environments and individual properties. Whether you aim to work in urban parks, botanical gardens, private estates, or community green spaces, this program provides the foundational skills necessary for a rewarding career in the dynamic field of parks and gardens management.

Program requirements for the Certificate III in Parks and Gardens at Bendigo TAFE include a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills aimed at preparing students for employment in the landscaping, parks, and garden maintenance industries. To enrol in this program, applicants typically need to demonstrate a basic proficiency in English and a genuine interest in horticulture and environmental sustainability. The course comprises core units covering fundamental topics such as planting design, maintenance of gardens and parks, weed and pest control, and safe work practices. Additionally, students undertake elective modules tailored to specific areas of interest within parks and garden management, such as landscape construction or environmental conservation.

Participants will learn how to operate and maintain a variety of tools and equipment used in landscape work, including handheld tools, mowers, and chainsaws, with a strong emphasis on safe work practices to minimize hazards. The program also emphasizes environmental sustainability principles, promoting the responsible use of resources and sustainable landscape practices. Students are expected to engage in workplace visits, industry placements, or practical projects to develop hands-on skills aligned with real-world scenarios. Successful completion of the course leads to a nationally recognized qualification, enabling graduates to work as entry-level landscape gardeners, park rangers, or maintenance workers.

The program prerequisites include having a minimum age of 17 years and, in some cases, a valid Working with Children Check if working in environments involving direct interaction with the public. Prospective students should have good physical fitness levels, as the program involves outdoor work and manual handling of materials. English language proficiency is necessary for understanding safety instructions, technical terminology, and communication with team members. The course duration is typically one year full-time or equivalent part-time study, provided in flexible learning modes to accommodate working students. Students are advised to review specific entry requirements and enrolment procedures through the Bendigo TAFE official website or contact the admissions office directly for detailed guidance. The program prepares students for further study pathways or direct entry into the workforce in the horticulture and environmental sectors, supporting industry standards and sustainable practices.

The financing of the Parks and Gardens program at Bendigo TAFE involves a combination of government subsidies, student fees, and potential financial aid options. The course fee structure is designed to be accessible to a diverse range of students, including domestic and international participants. For domestic students, government funding options such as skills first subsidies or Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) assistance may be available, which significantly reduce upfront costs and allow students to access the program without immediate full payment. International students are required to pay the full fee upfront, with costs varying depending on the specific course components and duration. Bendigo TAFE offers various payment plans, including instalment options, to support students in managing their finances throughout their studies. Additionally, students may be eligible for other financial assistance programs, such as scholarships or bursaries, aimed at supporting students in regional areas or those facing financial hardship. The program also encourages students to explore potential external funding opportunities, including state or federal grants aimed at environmental improvement, sustainable development, or horticultural training. The college provides detailed guidance on financial planning, including advice on applying for loans and scholarships, ensuring students are well-informed about their options. The cost of the program covers not only tuition but also learning materials, practical training resources, and industry-relevant tools required for hands-on training in parks and gardens management. Overall, the financial model for the Parks and Gardens program is designed to facilitate access to quality education while supporting students in funding their studies through various governmental and private avenues, promoting vocational training and skill development in the horticultural and landscaping industries.

The Parks and Gardens program offered by Bendigo TAFE provides students with comprehensive training in the planning, development, and maintenance of parks, gardens, and outdoor recreational areas. This program aims to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for a career in landscape management, horticulture, and environmental conservation. Throughout the course, students learn about sustainable practices, plant identification, soil management, pest control, and landscape design principles. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through on-site practical sessions, enabling students to develop competence in planting, pruning, irrigation, and site preparation. Additionally, students explore the use of various tools and machinery essential for landscape maintenance. The program also covers project management skills, health and safety protocols, and communication practices relevant to working in outdoor environments. Graduates of this program can pursue roles such as parks and gardens technician, landscape horticulturist, garden maintenance worker, or environmental stewardship officer. Bendigo TAFE’s facilities include well-equipped laboratories, demonstration gardens, and outdoor sites that simulate real-world work environments. The program often integrates industry placements, offering students the opportunity to gain practical employment experience and foster professional networks. By completing this program, students are prepared to contribute to urban beautification projects, community parks, botanical gardens, and private landscaping initiatives. The course’s flexible learning options include full-time, part-time, and online components, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules. With a focus on environmental sustainability, the program encourages responsible practices that support biodiversity and ecological health. Overall, the Parks and Gardens program at Bendigo TAFE is designed to develop skilled, environmentally conscious professionals capable of making a positive impact on public and private outdoor spaces.