Information regarding RHS courses at the University of Bristol
We regret to inform you that, due to a combination of factors, including ongoing uncertainty within the higher education sector and rising external costs, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue our RHS course provision from the 2025/26 academic year onwards. As a result, the University will no longer operate as an RHS teaching centre.
We fully understand that this will be disappointing news for those who had hoped to undertake their horticultural studies in the unique and inspiring setting of the Botanic Garden. Please be assured that this decision was not taken lightly. Our primary focus remains the long-term sustainability, development, and preservation of the Botanic Garden as a vital civic and educational asset.
To support those seeking alternative routes to study, we have provided some links below detailing potential other study centre options:
Bridgewater College (Search Horticulture courses)
Wiltshire College (Search Horticulture courses)
Horticultural Correspondence College
We continue to be passionate advocates for the horticultural sector and remain open to exploring future opportunities for delivering horticultural learning at the Botanic Garden—whether through RHS qualifications or alternative short courses. However, we would like to clarify that no such plans are currently in place.
As we step back from RHS course delivery, our RHS administration team will no longer be available to respond to enquiries. We kindly ask that any questions regarding alternative providers be directed to the RHS directly via the following link:
Finally, we would like to thank you for your interest in the RHS programme at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden. We apologise for the timing and impact of this announcement and extend our sincere best wishes for your continued studies and future career in horticulture. We also hope you will continue to visit, enjoy, and champion our Botanic Garden, an asset we are proud to share with the wider community.
Kind regards,
Richie Fluester MHort (RHS),
MCIHort.Head of External Estates and Landscaping
External Estates Team
Campus Division | University of Bristol