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Darren’s enthusiasm for horticulture inspires others to cultivate careers in the industry
Based at the Ipswich campus, TAFE Queensland Horticulture Teacher, Darren Davidson, originally wanted to study viticulture at university, but as fate would have it, swapping his study plan from wine to wattles resulted in a hugely rewarding teaching career.
“After I finished school many years ago (1988) I tried to get into university to complete a degree in viticulture. I’m not really sure why but it seemed to interest me — maybe it was the opportunity to create wines and partake in the tasting,” Darren began, joking.
“I was unsuccessful in getting into the course and was pretty devastated originally. Then I saw a TAFE New South Wales ‘Advanced Certificate in Horticulture’ course, and thought this might be the next best way for me to get a job within the industry.”
“It also made sense — as I love natural landscapes, gardens and the outdoors and there’s no better way to combine the three than getting a job where you can work in it and appreciate your surroundings, along with creating beautiful gardens that others can appreciate,” shared Darren.
On completion of his certificate qualification, Darren gained a position with his local council in the parks and garden department, which he enjoyed for fifteen years, as it saw him outdoors, amongst nature.
Following an eventual family move to Queensland, Darren thought it time to explore his other passion — teaching.
“Teaching was a job that had always interested me. I love passing on my knowledge to students, making a positive change in their lives and hopefully giving them the confidence and skills to be great horticulturists,” said Darren.
“When I came across the advertisement to work for TAFE Queensland, I was initially apprehensive about applying. I felt that I might not have had the abilities to do the job, as I did not have any formal teaching experience. But, I applied for it regardless – it was the job opportunity I really wanted.”
“I guess my passion and enthusiasm for teaching came through within the interview and I was luckily successful and began teaching in 2007,” said Darren.
Darren shares his knowledge with students undertaking the hands-on Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30722) which covers topics on plant care, landscape management, propagating, pruning and fertilising to how to operating machinery and equipment.
“I teach across a broad area of horticulture units at our Ipswich campus, and try to inspire my students to be better and grow in their learning of horticultural skills and knowledge. I strive to be supportive of all learning styles and assist where I can for those students who need the extra support.”
“I hope that my love for the subject matter comes across and motivates my students to do their best,” said Darren.
Darren went on to later complete a teaching qualification at university, whilst at TAFE Queensland, giving him further insight into how adults learn, and how to motivate them to become valuable employees within their field.
“An average day for me is passing on my skills and knowledge as well as stimulating the students’ passion for plants and all things ‘horticultural’,” said Darren.
“Many, yes, are interested in plants, nature and gardening, but are just not sure where that can take them within the industry.”
“I feel that a very important part of my role is to show and discuss with them where and how the new skills and knowledge I am passing on can be used in their future careers,” said Darren.