Practitioner Qualification (PDA)

The practitioner qualification we’ve been developing in collaboration with two respected Scottish education partners has reached major milestones this year. Most importantly, it has successfully passed the formal Qualifications Scotland vetting process, confirming its status as a nationally recognised course. With this approval in place, we are now very close to launching and opening for student matriculation.  The PDA will launch in 2027 - final date to be confirmed soon.

The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Developing Professional Practice in Therapeutic Horticulture (SCQF level 7–8) is eligible for grant funding and, as an accredited national qualification, will be widely recognised by employers across health, social care, education and community sectors. Our teaching partners include a top‑ranked Scottish university (within the top third of global rankings) and a top‑rated Scottish college (#1 of 17 colleges for HE full‑time learners and 2nd for FE full‑time learners). Their involvement ensures high‑quality delivery and strong academic credibility.

This level of recognition — combined with accessible funding routes — will open the door for learners from all backgrounds: career changers, people returning to work after illness or time away from education, and practitioners seeking to deepen or formalise their skills. These milestones energise and inspire us to stay focused on expanding professional pathways in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture.

What the PDA covers

The PDA provides a structured, comprehensive foundation in the three core areas of Social and Therapeutic Horticulture practice:

• Therapeutic and care skills
• Horticulture knowledge and practical competence
• Therapeutic Horticulture practice and application

Achieving official approval from Qualifications Scotland offers assurance to employers and strengthens recognition among allied professions — including those who may refer clients to TH practitioners. Graduates will hold a qualification that clearly demonstrates professional capability, sector‑aligned skills and readiness for practice.

You can sign up to be kept informed about training and professional development using the form below.