For Commercial Horticulture student Isaac Lyon, studying at NKC Hadlow College has been about much more than learning in the classroom.
From industry experience and work-based learning to visits, events and a scholarship with Levington Evergreen Garden Care, Isaac has made the most of the opportunities available to develop his knowledge and prepare for a career in horticulture.
Isaac is studying the Commercial Horticulture Foundation Degree at the University of Greenwich, delivered at NKC Hadlow College, where practical learning and industry experience form an important part of his studies.
One of the highlights of his course so far has been being awarded the Levington Evergreen Garden Care Scholarship, which included £1,500 and a week of work experience at The Levington Research Institute in Suffolk.
For Isaac, the experience offered a fascinating insight into the research and science behind products used by gardeners every day.
Behind the scenes at Levington
During his time at The Levington Research Institute, Isaac worked alongside different members of the research team, learning about the trials they were carrying out and the purpose behind them.
The research team tests future products before they reach garden centre shelves. Isaac was able to see this work first-hand, including trials looking at the performance of different fertilisers.
“My thoughts on the whole experience was that this is an amazing place, but run by so few people; about eight, all running several trials all the year round. I learnt a lot from this experience and got to talk to the people who worked at Levington.”
The experience showed Isaac how much research goes into developing horticultural products, while also allowing him to meet people working in the industry.
“There was a lot of science and research, but it was very easy to understand and the technicians were great. Never too complicated and friendly. They were all very passionate about what they did.”
Isaac was already familiar with Levington products, including Miracle-Gro and Patio Magic, but says the experience gave him a much better understanding of the work behind them.
“I knew the brand but didn’t know much about it. I got to speak to them about what they do. I favour their product a lot more now I know they are good quality and trials are done to make sure they are the best quality.”
Learning through real-world experience
For Isaac, one of the biggest benefits of studying Commercial Horticulture is being able to apply what he learns to real-world situations.
Alongside his studies, he works part-time in a garden centre, giving him an opportunity to put his knowledge into practice and develop his understanding of retail horticulture.
“I have a part-time job at a garden centre and so studying retail horticulture is incredibly interesting. I have a deeper understanding of how they operate and I can wow them at work with my knowledge and take it back into my job.”
The combination of academic study and practical experience has helped Isaac develop a broader understanding of the horticultural industry and the different career opportunities within it.
Making the most of opportunities at Hadlow
Isaac has made the most of opportunities to explore the wider horticulture industry during his time at Hadlow.
He has been involved with creating NKC Hadlow College’s garden exhibit for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, has attended BBC Gardeners’ World in Birmingham, and explored different opportunities linked to university and the industry.
For him, these experiences have helped to broaden his understanding of where a career in horticulture could take him.
“At the moment I am being spoilt with opportunities, including potential work experience abroad. Having some experience can push you so far and it’s a platform to take you to other places.”
Isaac’s advice to other students considering a career in horticulture is to make the most of the opportunities available to them.
“Throw yourself at knowledge, learning, networking, events. There is so much out there and you get so much out of it.”
For Isaac, the combination of specialist learning, practical experience and opportunities to connect with the industry has helped him build a clearer picture of his future.
Interested in a career in horticulture?
NKC Hadlow College offers land-based education with opportunities to develop practical skills and industry knowledge alongside academic study.
Explore Commercial Horticulture at NKC Hadlow College and discover the opportunities available to start building a career in the horticultural industry.