Jacob Meekin (from Templepatrick) completing a practical assessment at Greenmount Campus, Antrim as part of his Level 2 qualification in Horticulture specialising in Parks, Gardens and Green Spaces
Jacob Meekin from Templepatrick is a studying for a Work-based Diploma in Horticulture at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE).
Studying one day per week at Greenmount Campus, Jacob is employed by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough (ANB) Council.
Jacob is enrolled on the Level 2 Horticulture course which offers him the chance to specialise his studies in Parks, Gardens and Green Spaces. The course is suited to those starting out on a career in Horticulture and offers those already working in the sector the opportunity to formalise their knowledge and skills and gain a recognised qualification.
Jacob Meekin (from Templepatrick) completing a practical skills assessment on the grounds of Greenmount Campus as part of his part-time Level 2 in Horticulture qualification.
Jacob says he loves working for ANB Council and is pursuing his passion for gardens and the benefits of working in the outdoors.
“Over the summer months I am kept busy working in Antrim Castle Gardens maintaining the extensive formal gardens. You will find me working away in the Parterre Garden or helping trim the historic hedges which border the canal.”
During the winter months Jacob works throughout the Borough, gaining a vast range of experience completing a variety of Horticulture tasks. One element that is consistent is the hands-on practical nature of his work which Jacob enjoys.
At CAFRE, Jacob has gained skills, knowledge and confidence using a wide range of machinery and working on projects at Greenmount Campus. Jacob has found his practical skills are strengthened in the classroom session with a focus on understanding the standards and specification required in the industry.
If you would like to follow a career that opens opportunities to an active, outdoor career whether in landscaping, gardening or urban farming including food production, come along to our Open Day at CAFRE.
Visit Greenmount Campus Antrim on Wednesday 26 March to find a course that suits you. For more information visit: www.cafre.ac.uk