Training
The garden chemical companies committee of the Crop Protection Association have created two broadly based training courses for the retail industry.
Well trained staff capable of advising customers confidently on the appropriate products for their needs, will give a competitive advantage to the retailer who can offer this level of customer service. Furthermore as new legislation (especially EU Directives) becomes ever more complex it is critical to retailers to understand their responsibilities under the law.
Both courses are designed to give retail staff detailed information on the use of fertilisers, compost, Garden Care Chemicals and all of the technical issues related to the use of these products in the garden. These include integrated garden care, environmental impact, disposal and water contamination issues.
The Garden Care Certificate of Competence (GCCC) is a one day entry level course with a simple exam and certificate from Warwickshire College formerly Pershore College. It is designed for all staff and gives a very broad introduction to all the key technical issues surrounding the use of garden sundry products. There are modules in insect, fungal and weed problems, lawncare, fertilisers, soil and growing media, relevant legislation and integrated garden care. This course has been running for more than 10 years and is recognised by the industry as a cornerstone basic course.
Below are the detailed GCCC course notes and course exam questions
BASIS ‘Guardian’ is a more demanding course requiring home study and 2 days attendance at a workshop to discuss the course material. There is a demanding exam at the end of the course.
BASIS is recognised as a key training organisation for the safe and effective use of both chemical and fertiliser products in agriculture and horticulture and is also at the forefront in understanding environmental impact issues. BASIS ‘Guardian’ is a demanding qualification. It is broadly at an ‘A’ level standard of academic achievement and is designed for those who are either managers or advisers or aspire to be managers or advisers. Trainers will provide a work book to cover the syllabus content and students will need to complete the workbook and pass the exam.
BASIS ‘Guardian’ is designed to ensure that a retail business can confidently advise the right product or technique for a garden problem, be aware of existing and new legal responsibilities and overall to give better customer service.
The course has modules in garden problems, various chemical and non chemical control options, legislation and safety, growing media and plant nutrition and water, wildlife and the environment.
To find out more about these courses contact the Crop Protection Association on 01733 355370.