About Garden Learners

Welcome to Garden Learners – a trusted tutoring and revision platform created to support learners studying for the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development.

Meet Your Tutor

My name is Alistair Olver, and I bring over 35 years of hands-on horticultural experience, academic qualifications, and a genuine passion for helping others grow in knowledge and confidence.

My love for gardening started in childhood, and that passion led me to Merrist Wood Horticultural College, where I earned a BTEC Diploma in Nursery Practices. During my studies, I undertook a valuable placement at Woerlein Baumschulen, a German tree nursery near Munich, gaining insight into tree production in a different country.

Professional Horticultural Experience

Over the years, I have worked with several leading horticultural organisations, including:

  • Hillier Nurseries, the largest nursery of shrubs and trees in the UK, where I was involved in tree production
  • West Kington Nurseries, renowned for alpine and herbaceous plant production
  • Whitehall Garden Centre, where I worked for 17 years, progressing to Senior Sales Advisor, becoming the go-to expert on plant pests and diseases

This breadth of experience has equipped me with deep practical knowledge across a wide range of horticultural practices and plant care challenges.

In 2018, I returned to academic study and graduated in 2022 with a First-Class Honours Degree in Plant Biology from Aberystwyth University. This academic foundation enables me to confidently support learners as they navigate the complexities of plant science.

Why I Created Garden Learners

Garden Learners was founded in response to repeated requests from students on tutoring platforms like Superprof. Many of them were studying for the RHS Level 2 and felt overwhelmed by the volume and complexity of the syllabus.

They needed a different way of learning—one that was visual, structured, and tailored. By offering patient guidance and breaking down complex concepts through the use of diagrams, analogies, and conversation, I helped these learners excel.

Their success inspired the creation of Garden Learners – a dedicated space where students can receive trusted, expert-led support and resources.

A Personalised Approach to Learning

Every learner is different. Whether you’re completely new to horticulture, changing careers, or simply looking to deepen your understanding, I tailor my tutoring methods to suit your learning style.

I aim to make plant science approachable, enjoyable, and relevant to your goals. I am currently completing the final module of the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, ensuring my approach is informed by sound teaching practice and subject expertise.

Supporting Your Success

Whether you’re looking for friendly and expert one-to-one tutoring or comprehensive revision notes that make sense of the RHS syllabus, Garden Learners is here to guide you.

You’re in safe, experienced hands.

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