Business Details
43 Years
experience
Expert Gardening Courses in London
English Gardening School, founded in 1983 by Rosemary Alexander, is a globally respected institution dedicated to training future garden designers, horticulturists, and plantspeople. Based at the historic Chelsea Physic Garden in central London, we offer internationally recognised diploma courses in garden design and horticultural practice, alongside distance learning and short courses for enthusiasts. Our curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, including practical sessions at Rosemary's private garden, Sandhill Farm House. With over four decades of expertise, we have nurtured generations of professionals who now lead successful careers in gardening and landscape design worldwide.Our faculty comprises industry leaders, many of whom are award-winning designers and RHS judges. We maintain rigorous academic standards while fostering a supportive learning environment that empowers students to develop their unique creative potential. Our graduates consistently praise the transformative impact of our courses, which provide both technical mastery and the confidence to pursue professional opportunities in horticulture.
Services
Gardening Diplomas
Garden Design Courses
Distance Learning
Short Gardening Courses
Practical Training Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- 40 years of excellence in gardening education since 1983
- Courses validated by RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) experts
- Practical training at historic Chelsea Physic Garden
- Globally recognised qualifications with alumni worldwide
- Led by industry authority Rosemary Alexander, RHS medal recipient
Associations and certifications
- Royal Horticultural Society
What people say
Informative and inspiring
Thoroughly enjoyable
Life changing
Excellent teaching
Practical and relevant
Services
Good Gardening Diploma
Our flagship one-year course provides comprehensive training in horticultural practice. Students gain hands-on experience through practical sessions at Chelsea Physic Garden and Sandhill Farm House, covering pruning, propagation, seasonal tasks, and plant care. The curriculum develops technical expertise while fostering confidence for professional gardening careers.
Garden Design Diploma
This prestigious design programme covers all aspects of garden creation, from concept to execution. Students learn spatial planning, planting design, and technical drawing while developing portfolios through practical projects. The course includes lectures from industry leaders and site visits to iconic gardens across the UK.
Distance Learning Courses
Flexible correspondence courses available globally, covering garden design fundamentals and horticultural maintenance. Students receive personalised feedback through structured assignments and benefit from our comprehensive course materials developed by expert tutors with decades of industry experience.
Short Gardening Courses
Four-day introductory programmes for gardening enthusiasts, covering essential techniques and plant knowledge. Ideal for hobbyists seeking foundational skills or career changers considering professional paths, with practical demonstrations and interactive sessions led by experienced instructors.
Practical Training Sessions
Immersive garden maintenance workshops at Sandhill Farm House, offering direct experience with seasonal tasks. Participants learn pruning techniques, propagation methods, and planting strategies under expert supervision, gaining valuable practical skills applicable to both personal and professional projects.
People
Rosemary Alexander
Founder & Principal
Internationally renowned garden designer and author, awarded RHS's Gold Veitch Medal. Founded the school in 1983 and transformed Stoneacre Garden. Member of multiple horticultural societies, with extensive publishing credits including 'The Essential Garden Design Workbook'.
Joe Swift
Tutor & Alumni
Award-winning garden designer and BBC presenter, graduating in 2009 with Distinction. Holds RHS Chelsea Gold Medal and regularly contributes to gardening media. Combines design expertise with broadcasting experience to mentor emerging professionals.
Manoj Malde
Tutor & Alumni
RHS Judge and Chelsea Flower Show award winner, graduating in 2015. Specialises in sustainable garden design and television presenting. Shares practical expertise through engaging teaching methods developed during his successful design career.
Emilie Bausager
Tutor & Alumni
Award-winning garden designer with RHS Tatton Park People's Choice Award. Combines Scandinavian sustainability principles with historical design influences. Brings contemporary design perspectives to course delivery while mentoring students in creative practice.
Amelia Bouquet
Tutor & Alumni
Chelsea Flower Show Silver-Gilt medalist specialising in mental health-focused garden design. Graduated in 2018 and continues to contribute to course development. Offers practical insights into creating therapeutic garden spaces through professional practice.
Questions
Are your courses suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, our short courses cater to beginners while diplomas welcome all experience levels. Tutors provide tailored support to ensure accessibility for new learners.
Do you offer international study options?
Our distance learning courses are accessible globally, with students from over 30 countries participating in correspondence programmes and virtual tutoring sessions.
What practical experience opportunities exist?
Diploma students gain hands-on experience at Chelsea Physic Garden and Sandhill Farm House, working directly with plants and professional gardeners.
How do courses support career development?
Graduates receive industry connections and portfolio development support. Many alumni have established successful design practices post-graduation.
Are there networking opportunities with professionals?
Courses include lectures from industry leaders and site visits to RHS shows, providing direct access to established professionals and potential employers.
What makes your school unique?
Combining historic Chelsea Physic Garden access with expert tuition and practical training, our programmes offer unparalleled opportunities for immersive horticultural education.
Reviews (2)
Barbara Dashwood
Apr 10, 2014
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No doubt about it, they turn out some very accomplished garden designers who steal a lot of medals at The Chelsea Flower Show. As a graduate of their garden design course I can attest to their rigorous curriculum, very experienced teaching staff, caring admin. and to the generous and talented principal, Rosemary Alexander.
Stephen De Vere
Jan 07, 2013
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View video testimonials by recent students (including Chelsea Flower Show award winners) on the school's website, on the 'About Us' page. This is the foremost gardening school in the country.
