Horticulture ‘taster’ training for new staff
19 March 2025
Primary ITO has launched a short training programme for people new to the horticulture sector that covers essential knowledge on core industry practices.
The Limited Credit Programme in Horticulture Practices (Level 3) takes six months to complete and can be tailored to suit an individual’s role and workplace. It features a variety of electives including knowledge of plant structure and function; plant pests and diseases identification, prevention and control; pest management; agrichemical use and application; and maintaining infrastructure used in horticulture operations.
A Limited Credit Programme (LCP) is a short ‘taster’ programme that covers the fundamentals, with the option of leading on to further training. Unit standards achieved by a learner count towards future training.
Primary ITO Sector Manager for Production Horticulture, Hamish Gordon, says this is an excellent option for a business taking on a new staff member, or even someone wanting a refresher.
While the training programme is aligned with the fruit production sector (indoor and outdoor), additional electives have been added to make it useful across a range of sectors including landscape construction, nursery, viticulture and amenity.
“We’ve made it so a business can choose from a range of electives to suit the role of the employee and the type of business,” Hamish says.
“It’s also a great way for people who might be unsure of becoming a full apprentice to do some learning, and then decide if they want to continue on with the Level 3 New Zealand Certificate.”
This new offering has been developed in response to conversations with industry and is already being used as part of an induction programme by a large industry employer.
Click here for more information or to arrange a chat with your local Primary ITO Training Adviser.