Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available.

What are plant displays in the context of this standard?
Plant displays include displays for functions, annual bedding displays, herbaceous perennial displays, and indoor presentations.

What tools, equipment and machinery may be required?
Materials, tools, equipment and machinery may include plants, hanging baskets, fertiliser, hand tools such as rakes, shovels, spades, wheelbarrows and hoses, forklifts, trolley.

What safety equipment may be required?
Safety equipment may include signage and barriers.

What accessories and materials may be used for the preparation of plant displays?
Accessories and materials may include sculptures, rocks, water, surface and edge treatments, garden furniture, nursery products, signage, stands, boxes, fabrics and other decorative materials.

What OHS requirements are relevant to this standard?
OHS requirements may include cleaning, maintaining and storing tools, equipment and machinery; appropriate use of personal protective equipment including sun protection, drinking to avoid dehydration; safe operation of tools, equipment and machinery; correct manual handling; basic first aid; personal hygiene and reporting problems to supervisors.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?Competence in preparing plant displays requires evidence that plant displays can be prepared to a level which satisfies the workplace and plants suitable for the display can be selected and maintained in a healthy, optimal state.The skills and knowledge required to prepare the display must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, it may include displays of annual flowering plants, displays of potted colour or temporary displays for functions.
What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

planting techniques for annual bed displays
maintenance techniques for annuals and/or indoor displays
common problems occurring with display plants
remedial action required for display plants displaying health problems.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required. These include the ability to:

communicate with work team members, supervisors, suppliers and customers
use hand tools and machinery associated with the preparation of plant displays
use fertilisers and chemicals associated with plant maintenance
interpret planting plans
calculate quantities of plants and materials
effectively complete plant display in a timely manner.

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
Communicating ideas and information
Verbal communication of ideas and information relating to achieving the task. (1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Daily work reports may be used to collect information for the supervisors. (1)

Planning and organising activities
Activities are planned and organised as a part of a team. (1)

Working with others and in teams
Preparing the display may involve working as part of a team to complete the display to plan and on time. (1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
Mathematical concepts may be used to calculate plant requirements. (1)

Solving problems
Problem-solving skills may be required when dealing with unforeseen circumstances. (1)

Using technology
Technological understanding may be required to access information about suitable plants and design ideas, communicate and keep records. (1)