Green thumbs take note!

By Samantha Elley

If you have ever had a desire to work in a career where you can be outdoors and help make things grow, then the Certificate II in Horticulture may be right in your garden bed.

This new course will be split between Wollongbar TAFE and the brand new Byron Bay Connected Learning Centre and enrolments are open now, which starts on May 1.

NSW TAFE Relieving head teacher for Horticulture, Robert Davies said the course is for anyone from 16 to 60 who has a desire to learn how to grow produce and plants and eventually find a career in the industry of horticulture.

“The course is for those straight out of school, already working in the industry as trainees or it is even open to those people with a general interest,” he said.

“One year we had some attend from a gardening club just to improve their skills and knowledge in general.”

The course can be attended over six months, two days a week or over a year, one day a week and the days go from 9am to 3.30pm.

“It is 50% practical and 50% theory,” said Mr Davies.

“And you pretty much learn to do everything from propagating, pruning, planting, mulching, potting, identifying, from seeding to the finished product.”

With new facilities at Byron Bay, Mr Davies said there is more opportunities for those in the area to do the course.

“We’ve got a big expanse of land to create a vegetable patch and orchard,” he said.

“The seedlings are grown at the propagating facility in Wollongbar, then the students will plant in the patch at Byron and weed them and monitor them for pest and disease.”

After the course is complete, Mr Davies said students have the opportunity for further study in the Certificate III in Horticulture or the opportunity to work in nurseries, orchards, council to garden maintenance.

“The Northern Rivers is a big area of horticultural produce and is desperate for skilled workers,” he said.

“Running this course at Byron Bay Connected Learning Centre is a great opportunity to make use of this brand new facility with room to grow.”

To learn more on the Certificate II in Horticulture course, visit tafensw.edu.au or visit Student Services at Wollongbar TAFE.

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The Enchanted World of Kids Cubby Houses

Cubby houses, those quaint, imaginative structures nestled in backyards around the globe, are more than just play spaces for kids—they are sanctuaries of creativity, learning, and childhood memories. In this exploration of cubby houses, we delve into their charm, benefits for childhood development, design considerations, and tips for creating the ultimate backyard adventure.

Cubby Houses and Childhood Development

At first glance, a cubby house might appear as a simple wooden structure tucked into a garden corner. Yet, to children, it represents a boundless world of fantasy and freedom. These mini-homes are the stages for imaginative play, where kids can be pirates one day and bold explorers the next. This imaginative play is crucial for cognitive development, raising creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence.

Cubby houses also serve as a child’s first look into ownership, giving them a sense of responsibility and pride in their space. Decorating and caring for their cubby, children learn about organisation and personal responsibility in a fun, engaging way.

The Design Philosophy Behind Cubby Houses

When designing a cubby house, the goal is to balance safety, creativity, and environmental harmony. Modern cubby houses range from simplistic designs to elaborate mini-mansions, equipped with verandas, slides, and even climbing walls. However, the essence of a cubby house is not in its complexity but in its ability to inspire and adapt to a child’s imagination.

Eco-friendly materials and sustainability are becoming increasingly important in cubby house construction. Recycled wood, non-toxic paints, and solar-powered lights are just a few options for parents looking to minimise environmental impact. Moreover, incorporating natural elements like sandpits, water play areas, and gardens can further connect children with nature, enhancing their learning and sensory development.

Incorporating Education into Play

The educational potential of cubby houses is vast. By integrating elements like chalkboards, weather stations, or even simple tools for gardening, children can learn valuable lessons about the world around them. These features encourage exploration and curiosity, key drivers of lifelong learning.

Cubby houses are also excellent tools for social development. They can be hubs for social interaction where kids learn to negotiate, share, and work together. Whether it’s deciding on the day’s play theme or resolving a dispute about who gets to be the captain of the ship, these experiences are invaluable in developing empathy and social skills.

Creating Your Child’s Dream Cubby House

Building a cubby house can be a wonderful project for the whole family.

Here are some tips to get you started:

• Safety First: Ensure the structure is stable and materials are safe. Smooth out any sharp edges, and if the house is elevated, secure railings and a sturdy ladder.
• Let Creativity Lead: Involve your child in the design process. Their imaginative ideas can lead to unique features that make the cubby house truly theirs.
• Consider the Location: Place the cubby house in a spot that’s easily visible from the house but also immersed in the garden. Proximity to trees, flowers, and shrubs can enhance the sense of adventure.
• Think Long-Term: Children grow quickly, so consider a design that can evolve with them. Modular cubby houses that allow for expansions or modifications can extend the life of the playhouse.

The Community Aspect of Cubby Houses

Cubby houses have the power to bring communities together. Neighbourhood cubby house competitions or shared community garden cubbies can foster a sense of togetherness and shared pride. These initiatives not only create communal spaces for play but also teach children the value of community and collective care for shared spaces.

The Cubby Houses Await!

Cubby houses represent a world of wonder for kids, offering endless possibilities for play, learning, and growth. They are microcosms of creativity, where the simplest structures can become castles, spaceships, or secret headquarters in the eyes of a child.

Beyond their immediate joy and entertainment value, cubby houses play a crucial role in childhood development, encouraging independence, social skills, and a connection with nature.

As we design and build these special spaces, we’re reminded of the importance of play in a child’s life—not just for fun, but as a fundamental part of learning about the world and themselves.

In the end, the greatest gift we can give our children is the space and freedom to explore, imagine, and dream. And perhaps, in the process of creating these magical garden retreats, we rediscover a bit of our own childhood wonder along the way.

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What are some careers for people who like gardening?

If you’re passionate about gardening, there are several career paths that could align well with your interests, offering opportunities to work closely with plants, design landscapes, or contribute to environmental conservation.

• Horticulturist: Horticulturists specialise in plant cultivation, genetics, and breeding. They work in a variety of settings, including botanical gardens, nurseries, and agricultural firms, focusing on improving plant growth, yield, and resistance to pests.
• Landscape Architect: If you have a keen eye for design along with a love for plants, becoming a landscape architect might be the right path. Landscape architects plan and design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, residential areas, and campuses, combining aesthetics with functionality.
• Garden Designer: Similar to landscape architects but often working on a smaller scale, garden designers focus specifically on creating beautiful and practical garden spaces for private homes, public parks, or businesses.
• Botanist: Botanists study plant life at various levels, from microscopic cells to entire ecosystems. Their work can involve research, conservation, and education, contributing to our understanding of plant biology, ecology, and the impact of climate change on vegetation.
• Arborist: Arborists are experts in tree care, focusing on planting, maintaining, and removing trees. They work to ensure the health and safety of trees in urban and rural settings, often collaborating with municipalities and private landowners.
• Agricultural or Environmental Scientist: These scientists focus on improving agricultural practices, managing natural resources, and conserving the environment. They work on issues like soil health, water use, and sustainable farming methods.
• Florist: Florists work with flowers, creating arrangements for occasions such as weddings, funerals, and celebrations. This career combines creativity with a knowledge of plant care.
• Nursery or Greenhouse Manager: Managing a nursery or greenhouse involves overseeing the cultivation and sale of plants and flowers. This role requires a blend of botanical knowledge, business acumen, and customer service skills.
• Landscape Contractor: Landscape contractors execute the plans designed by landscape architects or garden designers. This hands-on career involves planting, building hardscape, and installing irrigation systems.
• Gardening Coach or Educator: If you enjoy sharing your love for gardening with others, consider becoming a gardening coach or educator. This can involve teaching gardening classes, writing articles or books, or running workshops.

Each of these careers offers a unique way to engage with your passion for gardening, whether your interests lie in the artistic, scientific, or educational aspects of plant cultivation and landscape design.

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