Be a better gardener
This course is part of a series of short courses that aims to help you become a better gardener, whether you are just starting out or already have well-developed green fingers. For more information about the series please see the final section of this document.

Course aim
The ideal place to start your garden makeover! This course is an introduction to practical garden planning and design techniques and ideas - giving you the skills to plan changes to your garden. Please note that this is not a 'gardening' course as such - garden maintenance and gardening techniques are covered in other courses in the series.

Course outcomes
a) Appraise your own garden to identify existing features, uses and issues b) Identify your requirements for new design and develop a 'client' brief, including choice of style c) Survey your own garden accurately, prepare a scale plan and use design principles and grids to complete a design d) Identify choices for hard and soft landscaping and the factors, including budget and construction, affecting these choices e) Draw a planting plan and choose plants for the design selected

How will the course be taught?
If this is an online course, please check the email confirmation for the link to join your Google Classroom. This information is also on "My Account" when you are logged in to the Adult Learning website. "Find How to use Google Classroom" at https://getgoing.nccadultlearning.ac.uk/it-tips/google-classroom

What do I need to bring / have ready?
You will need: a suitable device to access the Zoom call and Google Classroom (laptop or tablet is ideal, functionality may be limited on phones), internet access, your Zoom and Google Classroom login details. Course study materials are available on the course Google Classroom site - if you are unable to use the Google Classroom site because of disability please advise when booking or tell your tutor in advance of the first session so adjustments can be made. Pens (for writing and drawing), lined paper for notes, plain A3 paper for drawing and A3 tracing paper. A folder to organise your notes and work, ruler, and compass. For surveying: builder's measure (30 m) helpful although not essential, metal tape measure, set square, clip board, some stout string.

Further support and progression
If you need help whilst on a course with us, our Learner Support Advisor is available to discuss your needs. We offer a range of services, subject to eligibility, which can include practical support and/or financial assistance to ensure you feel fully supported while learning with us. For more information contact alsreferrals@northnorthants.gov.uk or call 01536 859050 (answerphone available). Visit our website https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/adult-learning/fees-and-refunds for further information about our fees and concessions. Your tutor will inform you of further learning opportunities and progression during your course.

Health and Safety / Online Safety
When you enrol, please let us know if you require additional personal support to participate in this course. Your tutor will give you information about Health and Safety on the first day. To report suspected scams, or get help and advice about preventing scams call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

Further information
This course forms part of a series of courses for new gardeners, or experienced gardeners who would like to brush up their knowledge or get a new perspective. The aim is to introduce the techniques of gardening, and the reasons why we do things in a particular way to get good results. There is a particular focus on environmentally sensitive gardening, but this is a series for all gardeners. The series covers the following areas (select the ones that are appropriate for you - no need to do them all): a) The Healthy and Sustainable Garden. (6 Weeks) b) New Plants for your Garden (propagation) (5 weeks) c) Grow your own vegetables and fruit (7 weeks) d) Your ornamental garden (6 Weeks) starting 2024/25 e) Introduction to Garden Planning and Design. (6 Weeks)