Green thumbs are continuing to grow their skills at TAFE NSW in readiness to gain employment the thriving horticulture industry as demand for landscaping services is likely to increase post COVID-191. 

According to Job Outlook, the number of people working as Agricultural, Forestry and Horticultural Operators grew very strongly over the past 5 years and is expected to grow strongly over the next 5 years. 

Landscape gardeners like TAFE NSW graduate Nathize Naziazeno are flourishing and continue to find steady employment during this uncertain time, as workers are more than able to continue their professions at a safe distance from their clients. 

It’s great news for those hoping to enter the industry, and Andrew Hewitt, Head Teacher of Landscape Design at TAFE NSW Ryde said a lot of work had gone into the transition to connected learning, where students are able to use web conferencing technology to connect with their teachers so they can complete their course safely and enter the workforce.  

“We are delivering our horticulture classes via innovative connected delivery and supporting TAFE NSW students through live meetings, scheduled during normal class hours, so that the students still get valuable face time with their teachers,” Andrew said.  

Nathize completed the Diploma of Horticulture at TAFE NSW Ryde in 2019 and said the extra skills she developed helped her to refine her business knowledge. She is now operating a successful garden landscape and maintenance business – Seed Services. 

“Studying both the Certificate III and Diploma of Horticulture helped me develop a holistic approach to management by increasing my knowledge of business procedures whilst developing a deep understanding of the identification and classification of plants, pest and diseases and soil and turf maintenance. 

“Our teachers are presenting video demonstrations of soil testing and other practical applications and we’re working on being able to bring small groups of students back onto campus soon for modified face-to-face classes so that they have the opportunity to work on the practical elements of their course in the magnificent surrounds of TAFE NSW Ryde,” Andrew said. 

“I am really happy I had the opportunity to study at TAFE NSW. The knowledge and skills I gained will help me take my career to next level. The horticulture industry has endless opportunities to grow and I would like to see myself as a successful horticulturist creating and transforming gardens and green spaces.  

To find out more about studying horticulture at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601. 

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, 0402 528 210, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au