Former Student Donates Valuable Horticulture Equipment to Capel Manor College
The horticulture and professional landscaping department were delighted to welcome former student Douglas Smallwood back to Capel Manor College’s Enfield Campus earlier this month.
Douglas wanted to give something back to the next generation of horticulture students. His very kind donation enabled the College to purchase vital equipment that it did not have in the form of a mist propagation system, aeroponic propagator and hydroponic grow units.
Hydroponic equipment is cutting-edge technology used in the horticulture industry; it is a much faster way of growing and its usage cuts down on compost costs and helps to preserve water.
Having this equipment on-site at Capel Manor College is vital in providing students with the practical, real-life experience of using this type of technology.
The equipment allows for soil-less growing and leaf propagation, and uses supplementary light for growing indoors. Students studying horticulture at the College will use this equipment within their lessons to work out all the nutrients needed for root growth and bloom.
Douglas studied RHS Level 2 Horticulture over five years ago, he chose to study at the College as he knew it had a well-respected reputation for teaching horticulture. He enjoyed the mix of ages on the course he studied, as everybody was passionate and wanted to be there.
Now retired, Douglas has had a varied and interesting career including working for the NHS and in the financial sector. He describes himself as a keen amateur and has always had an interest in gardening, as his dad passed on his love of plants to him.
Since completing his course, Douglas works as a volunteer within the grounds at Hatfield House and manages his own allotment. Douglas regularly visits Capel Manor Gardens to see what the students have been working on since he left. The Gardens are open to the public and form part of the beautiful 30-acre estate that is Capel Manor College’s Enfield Campus.
For those considering studying horticulture, whether as a hobby or as a career path, Douglas’ advice is, ‘go for it, you will learn a lot!’
Would you like to support us?
If you are inspired by Douglas’ donation and are interested in supporting Capel Manor College and Gardens, visit the ‘Support us’ section of our Gardens website to discover the various ways that you can help make a difference.
What are the best courses to study in horticulture?
Capel Manor College has been a centre for horticultural studies since 1968 and has developed an unrivalled reputation for excellence and strong industry links.
We offer a variety of full and part-time horticulture courses at all of our campuses across London. We also have a range of horticulture apprenticeships available.
By studying with us, you will be introduced to a unique array of plant species and collections, both within our campuses and across the capital, providing you with the opportunity to work within some of London’s most prestigious parks and gardens.
Discover your potential at London’s environmental college. Browse courses and apply online today.
