Horticulture Apprenticeship Programme (Level 3-4)
Growing & Vines
A course by
EIT
A part-time apprenticeship programme designed for those working in the fruit industry to gain formal qualifications in horticulture. The course covers operational skills, fruit production, machinery, crop health, and orchard management.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 42 months
Core skills this course teaches
Apply operational and equipment skills in the fruit industry
Demonstrate safe and effective use of specialist horticultural equipment, infrastructure, and machinery required for fruit production.
Implement horticultural production practices
Apply principles of crop health, pruning, propagation, pest and disease management, agrichemicals, and soil management in a horticultural setting.
Monitor and manage orchard operations
Implement, supervise, and monitor orchard processes to achieve fruit production goals and standards.
What You're Signing Up For
The EIT Horticulture Apprenticeship Programme incorporates three NZQA-approved qualifications to build knowledge and practical skills in fruit production. Tailored for those already working in horticulture, apprentices receive workplace-based and supported theory study, learning about crop production, plant health, machinery operation, orchard infrastructure, and professional supervision. The programme prepares graduates for roles ranging from orchard hand to management or owner/operator, and provides pathways for further study.
Course Content
- Health and safety in horticultural operations
- Operating agrivehicles and machinery (tractors, light utility vehicles, mowers, chainsaws)
- Fencing support structures and irrigation systems
- Crop health, pest and disease management
- Fruit propagation and pruning techniques
- Use of agrichemicals and digital tools
- Soil science and irrigation
- Teamwork and communication for horticulture
- Implementation and monitoring of orchard operations
- Production goals and crop management techniques
- On-campus and on-the-job learning in fruit production
What you need to know first
Entry requirements for each qualification apply – contact Programme Coordinator.
Personal interview may form part of application process.
Demonstration of English language fluency (IELTS Academic 3.0 overall or equivalent, or prior study in English).
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Horticulture
Fruit Production
Primary Industries
Future employment opportunities might be
Orchard Leading Hand
Orchard Foreman
Orchard Manager
Orchard Owner/Operator