AHC31021

Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

Get a head start on your career in horticulture with this entry-level course designed for apprentices working in the industry.

STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast Darling Downs and South West North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY Apprenticeships and traineeships

NEXT INTAKE Starts anytime View all intakes

Course overview

Get qualified while you work with this entry-level course in horticulture. This qualification is designed for apprentices already employed in the industry. It will give you the core skills required to work in a diverse range of settings in gardens or public parks.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the number of people working in gardens and nurseries grew over the past five years and is expected to continue to see stable growth in the future. Employers are looking for qualified candidates who are hardworking, reliable, and have a positive attitude.

This course will give you the practical skills to control weeds, plant pests, diseases and disorders, identify plants and determine appropriate treatment options and safely operate and maintain machinery and equipment.

Our highly-experienced team of industry experts will give you the guidance you need to succeed in your studies.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work in your chosen place of employment as a landscape gardener, greenkeeper, or Parks and Gardens tradesperson.

What can I do?

Parks and Gardens Tradesperson
Landscape Gardener
Greenkeeper

Course outcome:

AHC31021 Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

Work and study

We put theory into practice, which is why we believe in on-the-job training. Our strong industry partnerships mean you'll graduate with confidence, knowing you have all the skills you need to get right to work.

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

The Queensland government is supporting young Queenslanders up to the age of 25 by providing access to fully subsidised training across a range of priority apprenticeship or traineeship qualifications. Learn more>

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 5 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
AHCIRG346

Operate pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE :
AHCIRG346

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to pre-start check, inspect, start up, operate, monitor and shut down pressurised irrigation systems.
UNIT NAME
Operate pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE
AHCMOM304

Operate machinery and equipment

UNIT CODE :
AHCMOM304

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain machinery and equipment.
UNIT NAME
Operate machinery and equipment

UNIT CODE
AHCPCM306

Provide information on plants and their culture

UNIT CODE :
AHCPCM306

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify client issues or requirements, identify the preferred solution, and provide information and solutions to clients.
UNIT NAME
Provide information on plants and their culture

UNIT CODE
AHCPGD307

Implement a plant establishment program

UNIT CODE :
AHCPGD307

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to establish planting areas, including preparing, implementing, reviewing and completing plant establishment work, in new projects and in programs of extensive replacement and renovation works across a range of situations and environments.
UNIT NAME
Implement a plant establishment program

UNIT CODE
AHCPGD309

Perform specialist amenity pruning

UNIT CODE :
AHCPGD309

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to perform specialist amenity pruning, including preparing, undertaking and completing amenity pruning work using specialist pruning techniques.
UNIT NAME
Perform specialist amenity pruning

UNIT CODE
AHCPGD310

Implement a landscape maintenance program

UNIT CODE :
AHCPGD310

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement a landscape maintenance program, including interpreting the program requirements, and monitoring and maintaining landscape areas of newly constructed or established landscapes.
UNIT NAME
Implement a landscape maintenance program

UNIT CODE
AHCPMG301

Control weeds

UNIT CODE :
AHCPMG301

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and coordinate weed control activities using appropriate strategies to provide effective, economic control while minimising environmental damage.
UNIT NAME
Control weeds

UNIT CODE
AHCPMG302

Control plant pests, diseases and disorders

UNIT CODE :
AHCPMG302

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and assess the effect to plants of plant pests, diseases and disorders and plan and coordinate control measures.
UNIT NAME
Control plant pests, diseases and disorders

UNIT CODE
AHCSOL304

Implement soil improvements for garden and turf areas

UNIT CODE :
AHCSOL304

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect and test soil samples for their physical and chemical characteristics and take corrective action to improve the soil for garden beds and turf areas.
UNIT NAME
Implement soil improvements for garden and turf areas

UNIT CODE
AHCTRF309

Implement a grassed area maintenance program

UNIT CODE :
AHCTRF309

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain general turf grass surfaces involving the general procedures for cutting and trimming grass, dethatching older grassed areas, applying fertilisers and treatments for managing grass health.
UNIT NAME
Implement a grassed area maintenance program

UNIT CODE
AHCWHS301

Contribute to work health and safety processes

UNIT CODE :
AHCWHS301

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out enterprise work health and safety policies and procedures.
UNIT NAME
Contribute to work health and safety processes

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
AHCCHM304

Transport and store chemicals

UNIT CODE :
AHCCHM304

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely transport, handle and store liquid and dry chemical formulations across a broad range of industry sectors.
UNIT NAME
Transport and store chemicals

UNIT CODE
AHCCHM307

Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseases

UNIT CODE :
AHCCHM307

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely prepare and apply chemicals for the control of pests, weeds and diseases, using general application equipment.
UNIT NAME
Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseases

UNIT CODE
AHCECR301

Maintain native ecosystem areas

UNIT CODE :
AHCECR301

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and implement maintenance work within native ecosystem areas.
UNIT NAME
Maintain native ecosystem areas

UNIT CODE
AHCIRG338

Troubleshoot irrigation systems

UNIT CODE :
AHCIRG338

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to locate and identify irrigation system faulty components and blockages, shut down and isolate components, replace faulty components, clear blockages and return irrigation system to normal operating status.
UNIT NAME
Troubleshoot irrigation systems

UNIT CODE
AHCIRG345

Install pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE :
AHCIRG345

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to organise resources, set out and prepare an irrigation installation site and install, commission and complete pressurised irrigation system installation.
UNIT NAME
Install pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE
AHCIRG347

Maintain pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE :
AHCIRG347

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to interpret a maintenance program, inspect and maintain pressurised irrigation systems, and record and report maintenance activities.
UNIT NAME
Maintain pressurised irrigation systems

UNIT CODE
AHCMOM213

Operate and maintain chainsaws

UNIT CODE :
AHCMOM213

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely operate a hand-held chainsaw and maintain it in working condition.
UNIT NAME
Operate and maintain chainsaws

UNIT CODE
AHCPCM204

Recognise plants

UNIT CODE :
AHCPCM204

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise commonly encountered plants, including desired species and weeds, and to document and confirm plant identification.
UNIT NAME
Recognise plants

UNIT CODE
AHCPCM303

Identify plant specimens

UNIT CODE :
AHCPCM303

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and describe the features and attributes of a plant for the purpose of plant identification and providing information to a client or organisation. It applies to individuals who take responsibility for their own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
UNIT NAME
Identify plant specimens

UNIT CODE
AHCPCM305

Implement a plant nutrition program

UNIT CODE :
AHCPCM305

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement a plant nutrition program, including preparing for the nutrition program, monitoring and controlling the nutritional requirements of plants, preparing fertilisers and application equipment, applying products to plants, and completing plant nutrition program activities.
UNIT NAME
Implement a plant nutrition program

UNIT CODE
AHCPCM307

Report on health and condition of trees

UNIT CODE :
AHCPCM307

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare and inspect trees and record and report findings.
UNIT NAME
Report on health and condition of trees

UNIT CODE
AHCPGD308

Plan and maintain plant displays

UNIT CODE :
AHCPGD308

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and establish plant displays, including preparing, selecting, placing and maintaining plants either indoors or as seasonal displays of annual and perennial plants in garden beds and completing work.
UNIT NAME
Plan and maintain plant displays

UNIT CODE
AHCPGD311

Conduct operational inspection of park facilities

UNIT CODE :
AHCPGD311

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to conduct operational inspections of park or recreational facilities to identify hazards, existing and potential risks and non-conformities with Australian Standards and workplace health and safety requirements.
UNIT NAME
Conduct operational inspection of park facilities

UNIT CODE
AHCSOL305

Prepare growing media

UNIT CODE :
AHCSOL305

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare growing media for various plants, including preparing for work, confirming specifications for growing media and preparing and storing the media.
UNIT NAME
Prepare growing media

UNIT CODE
AHCSOL406

Sample soils and interpret results

UNIT CODE :
AHCSOL406

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for soil sampling, collect soil samples and interpret test results.
UNIT NAME
Sample soils and interpret results

UNIT CODE
AHCTRF308

Establish turf

UNIT CODE :
AHCTRF308

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to establish turf by sowing, turf laying, sprigging and chaffing or stolonisation in sporting, public recreational open space, commercial and residential sites.
UNIT NAME
Establish turf

UNIT CODE
AHCTRF310

Monitor turf health

UNIT CODE :
AHCTRF310

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to monitor the health and condition of sports turf playing surfaces.
UNIT NAME
Monitor turf health

UNIT CODE
AHCTRF311

Renovate sports turf

UNIT CODE :
AHCTRF311

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement renovation or remediation of a sports turf area for minor projects and seasonal renovations in the turf industry.
UNIT NAME
Renovate sports turf

UNIT CODE
AHCWRK305

Coordinate work site activities

UNIT CODE :
AHCWRK305

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to coordinate work site activities for small scale projects.
UNIT NAME
Coordinate work site activities

UNIT CODE
AHCWRK309

Apply environmentally sustainable work practices

UNIT CODE :
AHCWRK309

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to apply environmentally sustainable work practices.
UNIT NAME
Apply environmentally sustainable work practices

UNIT CODE
FWPCOT3301

Trim trees using a pole saw

UNIT CODE :
FWPCOT3301

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use a fuel or battery powered pole saw to trim tree branches within safe height and angle limits.
UNIT NAME
Trim trees using a pole saw

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Ipswich	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online
Grovely	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Ashmore	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Toowoomba	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Cairns	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online
Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle	Apprenticeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

At TAFE Queensland, we understand that employers need options and flexibility in employee training. We are committed to delivering the flexible training plans you need to get the job done. Choose from workplace training, block training, drop in days, mobile training, day release, online or a mix of all these options. Learn more

You must already be employed to enrol as an apprentice or trainee with TAFE Queensland. Speak to your employer about choosing TAFE Queensland as your Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO).

Costs:

Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate of $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Non-funded apprentices and trainees will be charged a fee for service cost. These will be confirmed prior to the commencement of training.
Information regarding costs will be outlined on the agreed training plan, which will be provided to the employer and apprentice or trainee at time of induction.

Download Brochure

Certificate III in Parks and Gardens (AHC31021)

Ask a question

Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

COURSE CODE: AHC31021

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

To study an apprenticeship program you must be indentured as an apprentice with your employer.

Employers need to be able to provide the necessary human and physical resources to qualify for an apprentice.

Find out more on how to become an apprentice or trainee

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class:

a light long sleeved shirt
protective footwear with safety toe cap and non-slip soles to AS2210
safety glasses
ear muffs or plugs
a sun safe hat
sunscreen
secateurs
rubber dishwashing gloves
gardening gloves

You may also be required to have access to an 8m retractable tape measure and calculator for select units.

Transition statement

Replacement qualification

This qualification has been replaced by AHC31024 Certificate III in Parks and Gardens as of 1 May 2024. A transition period applies to enable current students to complete their study. The transition period finishes on 30 April 2025.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

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Certificate III in Landscape Construction

Kick start your career in landscaping with this entry-level course that will give you the practical skills to become a landscape construction tradesperson.

Careers

Landscape Construction Tradesperson or Supervisor
Landscape Gardener
Leading Hand
Landscape Assistant/Labourer
Landscape Construction small business owner

Full Time : up to 1 year

Next Start : 28 Jan 2025

Diploma of Landscape Design

Develop your career in landscaping with this high-level course that will give you the advanced skills and knowledge to become a landscape designer.

Careers

Landscape Designer
Landscaper

Full Time : 1 year

Next Start : 28 Jan 2025

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Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Work and study

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

Core units

Elective units

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Transition statement

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Certificate III in Landscape Construction

Careers

Diploma of Landscape Design

Careers