L3 Horticulture and Sustainability

NCEA Level 3 Horticulture & Sustainability (3HORT)

Students have a choice between Level 3 Horticulture or Level 3 Sustainability.

Level 3 Horticulture - This course provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in horticulture, with an emphasis on sustainable practices relevant to New Zealand’s climate and native ecosystems. Students will study plant science, soil management, pest control, propagation, and landscape design to prepare for careers in horticulture, arboriculture, landscaping, or further study.

OR

Level 3 Sustainability - This course explores the principles and practices of sustainability, with an emphasis on New Zealand’s unique environment, cultural values (including Māori perspectives), and sustainable development goals. Students will gain knowledge and skills to analyze environmental challenges and implement sustainable solutions in various contexts.

“Doing Level 3 Sustainability was eye-opening. It’s not just about learning facts—it’s about understanding how what we do now affects the future of Aotearoa. I feel like we’re actually the crew steering New Zealand towards a cleaner, smarter world. It made me realise we have real power to make a difference.” - Year 13 Horticulture Student

“Level 3 Horticulture taught me that it’s more than just growing plants — it’s about how those plants can make a real difference for our environment and community. It helped me see how connected we are to the land and why that matters for Aotearoa’s future.” - Year 13 Horticulture Student

Curriculum Skills and Key Competencies

Thinking: Apply critical and creative thinking to solve complex problems related to plant production, environmental management, and sustainable practices.  Analyze the impacts of horticultural activities on ecosystems and develop strategies to minimize negative effects.  Use scientific knowledge to design and implement sustainable resource management and pest control methods.

Using language, symbols and text: Interpret technical and environmental data, including soil tests, plant health reports, and sustainability indicators.  Communicate clearly and effectively about horticultural processes and sustainability goals in written, oral, and digital formats. Access and evaluate diverse sources of information, including Māori perspectives and local environmental knowledge.

Managing self: Demonstrate initiative and responsibility in managing sustainable horticultural projects and individual learning goals. Maintain health and safety standards in practical work, considering both personal and environmental safety.  Organize time and resources efficiently to balance horticultural tasks with sustainability planning and evaluation.

Relating to others: Collaborate respectfully with peers, industry professionals, and local communities, incorporating cultural values such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship).  Recognize and value different viewpoints, especially those related to Māori environmental stewardship and community wellbeing.  Foster teamwork to achieve shared sustainability and horticultural objectives.

Participating and Contributing: Engage actively in community sustainability projects and horticultural initiatives that promote ecological and social wellbeing.  Contribute practical skills and innovative ideas to enhance sustainable practices in horticulture.  Reflect critically on personal and collective contributions to learning, environmental outcomes, and community impacts.

Careers and Pathways

• Horticulturist: Working in plant production, nursery management, or crop cultivation with a focus on sustainable practices.
• Landscape Designer / Technician: Designing sustainable, environmentally friendly gardens and public spaces that incorporate native plants and water-wise practices.
• Arborist / Tree Care Specialist: Managing tree health and safety, with an emphasis on native species conservation and urban ecosystem sustainability.
• Environmental Consultant: Advising businesses and communities on sustainability strategies, environmental impact assessments, and resource management.
• Conservation Officer / Ranger: Protecting and managing natural areas, working alongside iwi and local communities to uphold kaitiakitanga principles.
• Sustainable Agriculture Technician: Supporting sustainable farming systems that prioritize soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity.
• Community Sustainability Coordinator: Leading local sustainability initiatives, education programs, and community projects to improve environmental and social wellbeing.
• Nursery or Garden Centre Manager: Overseeing plant production and sales with a focus on sustainable sourcing and promoting native plants.
• Resource Management Officer: Working with local councils or iwi on policies and projects that ensure sustainable land and water use.
• Further Study and Training: Pursuing higher education in horticulture, environmental science, resource management, or Māori environmental studies.