Early learning
Our early learning activities are based on nature connection and wellbeing, inspired by our values at CERES: “helping people fall in love with the Earth, again.”
This course is designed as a taster for those who are unsure as to whether accredited training is for them, or whether horticulture and/or permaculture is the right pathway, or who are simply not able to commit to a full course at this stage.
The units offered have been selected from the Certificate II in Horticulture and Certificate II in Permaculture which are nationally recognised qualifications from the AHC Agriculture, Horticulture, Conservation and Land Management Training Package. Completing these units in our 4.5-hectare urban farm here at CERES Community Environment Park provides students with a range of skills and knowledge that are transferable to further study or a career in horticulture and/or permaculture.
For enquiries please complete the EOI form below
or contact adultlearning@ceres.org.au.
This CERES taster course offers three units*
Our first course for 2025 will consist of 15 sessions to be delivered on-site*:
There is a maximum of 15 places per class available in this program.
Course delivery includes a range of activities and methodologies including:
Students are advised that in addition to class time the course may require some additional hours of independent learning.
Work placement is not a formal requirement, however students will be working alongside a range of social enterprises at CERES including our Honey Lane organic market garden, propagation area, permaculture and bushfood nursery.
Student Resources
CERES will provide all course written and gardening related learning resources. Students are required to provide and wear appropriate attire for working outdoors including safety boots, gloves, hi-viz and sun protection.
Assessment
Assessment will be conducted in line with the Training Package’s requirements and will be through a range of practical demonstrations and some written assignments.
Students who successfully complete all 3 units will be issued with formal Statements of Attainment in recognition of partial completion.
Course Pre-requisites
Whilst there are no formal pre-requisites, prospective students should have:
Abigail Jabines has volunteered and worked for the horticulture industry in different capacities and work environments. She started as a volunteer propagator at CERES in 2015 before studying horticulture. After studying, she became a horticulturist for a hydroponics company. Abi started working at CERES in 2019. She enjoys encouraging people from different backgrounds, especially women and young people, to work with plants and help improve the connection between people and our natural environment.
On successful completion graduates may wish to enrol in qualifications such as a Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30722), Certificate III in Landscape Construction (AHC30921), Certificate III in Nursery Operations (AHC31120), Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC31420), Certificate III in Parks and Gardens (AHC31021).
Those wanting to continue accredited training in Permaculture may wish to consider the full Certificate III Permaculture (AHC33822).
2025 full-fee breakdown:
Tuition: Full $1145 / Conc $995
Materials: Full $105 / Conc $105
Total: Full $1250 / *Concession $1100
Fees will be split into two payments. $1,000 on enrolment with the balance to be paid by the second week of the course.
* For those holding a valid Government Concession Card
Applicants are asked to complete the EOI below or contact adultlearning@ceres.org.au for any queries or enrolment.
CERES welcomes applications from those with disabilities. It is important to us that our students receive training, assessment and support services that meet their individual needs where appropriate. As part of this commitment, and in line with our access and equity policy, all applicants will be interviewed by the VET Coordinator prior to enrolment to determine needs.
CERES is the registered training organisation offering this training – RTO no 3686. CERES School of Nature and Climate is the trading name of CERES Inc.
Read the full RTO fees and refund policy here.
Please complete all the following fields so our staff can contact you to secure you place.