Michael Lipsett - Higher National Certificate in Horticulture Direct Services Manager, Castlereagh Borough Council
"I thoroughly enjoyed the HNC in Horticulture, particularly the part-time mode of study and the flexibility of choosing modules that were relevant to my career. While studying I was responsible for the administration and finance of various works contracts as well as 34 direct works staff in Coleraine Borough Council. On completion of my HNC I gained promotion and was appointed to my current post in Castlereagh Borough Council."
Graham Neill - First Assistant Greenkeeper, The West Course Wentworth
“I benefited greatly from my time at Greenmount I was able to learn about all the different aspects of horticulture and specialise in sportsturf. My work experience at the Hilton Golf Course was invaluable. I am currently employed as Greenkeeper on the West Course at Wentworth and thoroughly enjoy the challenge of preparing the course for televised events.”
Neil Magennis - Higher National Diploma in Horticulture Landscape Contractor
Neil has had an interest in horticulture from a young age and after completing the National Diploma in Horticulture he progressed onto the HND in Horticulture.
‘Completing the HND course gave me the opportunity to increase my knowledge about the management and business end of horticulture. As part of the course I had the opportunity to manage the production and marketing of a pot plant crop for sale to the industry. I also gained valuable industry experience working with Annett’s Landscaping and Garden centre, landscaping and maintaining private houses and public works.'
Andrew McCaw - FdSc in Horticulture
“I have always had an interest in horticulture and the reputation of the college encouraged me to visit, I was very impressed by the campus. I really enjoy the course especially learning new plants and the latest horticultural techniques. When I graduate I plan to gain experience and then start up my own business designing and building domestic gardens.
Thomas O’Hagan - National Diploma in Horticulture Sportsturf Management student
Thomas completed a National Diploma in Horticulture during which he gained work experience on a golf course. Thomas progressed onto the Sportsturf Management option in order to specilise and hopes to be a head greenkeeper. He spent his placement year at The ‘K Club’ in County Kildare working on the famous Palmer Course and hopes to return once he has finished his studies to assist with the 2006 Ryder Cup preparations.
Samantha Kennedy - FdSc in Horticulture – Amenity
“I chose to study horticulture at Greenmount as I am interested in both the practical and theory behind gardening and other areas such as sportsturf. My father is a Head Gardener and working with him stimulated my interest. The course allows you to get hands on experience in a wide variety of topics. I have just completed my placement year which gave me a diverse range of experiences as I worked on a golf course in Ireland, the Abbey Garden on Tresco and the Threave Gardens in Scotland.”
Sarah Peilow - Part-time Horticulture student
“I have been interested in horticulture from an early age and when I left school I went to Greenmount Campus to study for a National Diploma. When I finished I first worked for Armagh Council and I then moved to Dungannon District Council. I soon realised that if I was to gain promotion I would need a higher qualification so with the support of the Council I started the Higher National Certificate in Horticulture course. I study one day per week at Greenmount and this suits me perfectly and allows me to balance work, family life and study.”
Greenmount offers a wide range of courses to suit all interests and levels. I was interested in continuing my studies and adding to my horticulture qualifications. From hearing all the positive feedback from colleagues about Greenmount I decided to pursue a NVQ Level III course in Landscaping. On completion of this in 2005 I then decided to carry on my studies and enrolled on the Foundation Degree in Horticulture, so far it has been really good, a lot of work, but interesting .
Paul McVeigh - NVQ Level 2 Award in Amenity Horticulture
Newry and Mourne District Council have employed Paul from Annalong, for the past 15 years. He specialises in grounds maintenance.
“The NVQ at Greenmount allows me to get the best of both worlds by combining a full time job with my studies. The course is very relevant and interesting and certainly gives me a wide range of practical skills.”
Brian McConway - Advanced National Certificate in Horticulture (Sportsturf Management)
Brian completed his ANCH in 2005. He works as Deputy Head Greenkeeper in Portstewart Golf Club. Previously he worked in Royal Portrush and Roe Park Golf Clubs where he completed his level 2 award, receiving the Institute of Groundsmanship perpetual trophy for his efforts. Brian also holds the Assessor Award for NVQ and now assists his colleagues at Portstewart to gain their NVQ awards. “I found the ANCH course very beneficial as it goes into the finer details that I need in my job”.
