4N0683 Horticultural Tools and Equipment Course

In order to start on this course you will need your Junior Certificate or QQI Level 3 or equivalent.

If you are not sure whether you have completed an equivalent course please contact us on 044 9349400 or at hello@forustraining.ie.

Applicants will have the opportunity to advise of any additional learning requirements on application/registration.

1. List common tools and equipment used in horticultural operations and workshops to include their primary use and hazards associated with their use
2. Describe safe operating practices for a range of tools and equipment to include both hand and power
3. Prepare power hand tools and equipment for use to include using appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), pre-starting safety checks, mixing fuel, checking for leaks and damage while adhering to manufacturers' recommendations and operators' manuals
4. Use a range of hand tools safely including a hoe, rake, fork and spade
5. Use power hand tools safely including a two-stroke engine powered strimmer and a hedge cutter
6. Operate a pedestrian rotovator, scarifier, knapsack sprayer, mechanised raker, pedestrian mower, rideon mower, trailing mower and compact-type tractor mower
7. Maintain all equipment while in use to include setting height of cut, removing blade for maintenance, sharpening blade, refuelling, replacing cord or gut as needed, and maintaining lubrication and filters
8. Prepare tools and equipment for storage to include cleaning and storage procedures
9. Operate within appropriate safety procedures to create and maintain a safe working environment including safety standards regarding lifting, carrying and handling plants, tools and equipment.

The assessor is responsible for devising assessment instruments (e.g. project and assignment briefs, examination papers), assessment criteria and mark sheets, consistent with the techniques identified below and QQI’s assessment requirements.

Programme validation will require providers to map each learning outcome to its associated assessment technique. All learning outcomes must be assessed and achieved in accordance with the minimum intended module learning outcomes set out in the validated programme.

Skills Demonstration 80%

Examination - Theory 20%

QQI Level 4 4N0683 Horticultural Tools and Equipment - Level 4 10 Credits

1. Minor Award - Level 4

Single modules build to make a major award

2. Major Award - Level 4

90 credits in the right modules

3. Major Award - Level 5

Advance to a Level 5 award

4. Employment Opportunities

Garden Centres etc