The post Landscape Construction Management Education – ARO College is Leading the Way appeared first on Aro College.

This elevates and clearly defines the trade, previously being one of a handful of declared vocations given the common title of ‘Horticulture’ with the certificate (and other parallel qualifications) being delivered under a traineeship. This landmark achievement comes after concerted efforts by Master Landscapers of South Australia (MLSA) in collaboration with the South Australian Skills Commission, and the Department for State Development.

“The South Australian Skills Commission is pleased to have worked in partnership with the Master Landscapers of SA to formally establish new career pathways,” said the South Australian Skills Commissioner, Cameron Baker.

“By declaring the Certificate III in Landscape Construction as a trade (apprenticeship) pathway, we are recognising the changing skills needed in the sector and the growing requirement for landscaping workers to have building licences to undertake work.”

Further extending to the trade apprenticeship pathway, two additional formal traineeships via a AHC42021 Certificate IV and AHC52021 Diploma of Landscape Construction Management, have also been endorsed by the Skills Commission. This follows a parallel collaborative effort between the Commission, MLSA and the Registered Training Organisation, ARO College. The ability of the commission to consider this career progression wholistically and side-by-side ensures that, not only is the entry point to this career highlighted but pathways also provide for the full range for career progression and advancement. This is a significant advancement for new and existing participants alike.

Importantly, the courses also attract Skills SA training subsidies for new entrants.

“The two new landscaping traineeships for supervisors and managers provide a structured approach to strengthening capability within the sector,” the Skills Commissioner added.

This elevated status has the potential to showcase landscape careers and attract industry entrants by providing formal routes to obtaining the industry knowledge required to progress their careers in creating and managing high quality urban and green spaces in both public and private settings.

Landscape gardeners with the combined skillset of planning and construction are currently included on Jobs and Skills Australia’s Occupation Shortage List, signifying a critical need within the state. Recognition of ‘landscape construction tradesperson’ as a trade, aims to help fill this gap, while also allowing for greater consistency and mobility across Australia.

The industry as a whole is also set to reap significant benefits from the changes, with landscape tradespeople expected to gain increased recognition of their professionalism and their unique combination of construction skill and horticultural knowledge.

“The definition change will have a real impact on our state’s landscaping sector – not only its ongoing viability but also in its reputation and parity with other construction trades,” said Clint Adams, President of MLSA.

This can lead to greater clarity and confidence when applying for building and contractor licenses and strengthens the landscape industry within the broader construction ecosystem.

Recognising its significance to the state, the Skills Commissioner praised the efforts as a great example of how, in partnership with industry, the South Australian skills system is responding to the evolving needs of industry.

Mr Adams noted that the achievement was the result of many hours of hard work and close collaboration between industry, the MLSA and government, to achieve an outcome that will benefit landscapers, apprentices, and the broader community.

The new training qualifications came into effect on 15 November 2024. To learn more about these courses visit our Landscape Construction course pages.

The post Landscape Construction – Now An Apprenticeship in South Australia appeared first on Aro College.

The post Vocational Training in SA: Skilled. Thriving. Connected. appeared first on Aro College.

Whether you dream of designing amazing gardens, constructing detailed hardscapes, or working with sustainable landscapes, a career in landscaping can provide the opportunity to leave a lasting impression on outdoor spaces while enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career.

What is Landscape Construction?

Landscape construction is essentially the creation and construction of outdoor areas. From gardens and parks to residential landscapes, landscape construction involves the installation and construction of various elements that contribute to the overall design and functionality of the outdoor environment.

What do Landscapers Do?

Landscapers are talented tradespeople who construct and maintain almost everything on a property or development that is outside the home, apartment block or main building.

From the preparation of a site, earthworks, hardscaping such as patios, walls and paths, planting, as well as irrigation systems and lighting, landscape construction professionals work closely with landscape designers and architects to bring their vision to life.

Working with a variety of materials like stone, timber, concrete and of course plants, they are tasked to create functional and aesthetic outdoor spaces. Landscape construction involves skilled craftsmanship, attention to detail and an in depth understanding of horticulture and construction techniques.

Some common landscaping projects are:
Pergolas, swimming pools and their surrounds, decks, paving, retaining walls, pathways, fences, driveways, ponds, fountains and water features, playgrounds, street furniture, outside kitchens, large and small gardens, vertical walls through to maintaining sports fields, race tracks, government grounds, units, resorts, fun parks, malls, shopping centres and the list goes on and on. Landscaping teams do it all!

Landscaping projects can vary in scale and complexity. They can range from small residential gardens to large commercial developments, public parks, and even urban infrastructure projects. Landscape construction aims to harmoniously blend human-made elements with the natural surroundings, creating visually appealing, environmentally sustainable and functional spaces for various activities.

In addition to technical skills, senior landscape construction professionals also need to possess project management abilities, as they are responsible for coordinating resources, managing budgets and ensuring that projects are completed on schedule and to the client’s satisfaction. They may also need to collaborate with other tradespeople, such as plumbers, electricians and irrigation specialists, to ensure the seamless integration of various components.

How to have a career in landscape construction

Landscape construction traineeship

If you have made the decision to pursue a career in landscape construction, one of the best paths to consider is securing a traineeship with a reputable landscape construction company. Combining practical on the job training with formal education a traineeship allows you to gain the hands on experience and technical knowledge required to build a successful career in landscaping – you will earn while you learn!

A traineeship is usually 2-3 years, and as part of your qualification pathway you will be required to complete a Certificate III in Landscape Construction which is a nationally recognised qualification.

Certificate III in Landscape Construction

The Certificate III in Landscape Construction course provides the skills to work on construction landscaping projects including building brick, stone or concrete structures or features drainage system installation, working on retaining walls or paving, consulting on plants and constructing soil profiles.

You will also learn how to install, operate and maintain pressurised irrigation systems and perform specialist amenity pruning.

On successful completion of this course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills you need to prepare you for work confidently within this in-demand industry.

You can complete a Certificate III in Landscape Construction qualification at ARO College with no classroom study! Our Trainer/Assessors visit you at your worksite every 6 weeks, and our Study Coaches provide phone support whenever you need it, there are even twice weekly Zoom sessions you can participate in for extra support. Your daily on-the-job time will allow you to practice all the skills you are learning in your formal course.

By the end of your traineeship you will have acquired both the practical and theoretical knowledge required to commence work as a landscape gardener, landscape labourer or even allow you to start your own small landscaping business.

ARO College has been helping students learn about landscaping, horticulture, sports turf management, conservation, and park & garden maintenance for more than 20 years. We have industry experienced instructors and tools that make learning fun and interesting. If you’re interested in landscaping, we can teach you everything you need to know.

Start your journey towards a great career by enrolling in the Certificate III in Landscape Construction today!

The post Could Landscape Construction Be The Ultimate Career For You? appeared first on Aro College.