Merrist Wood College & University Centre – part of Activate Learning

Merrist Wood College & University Centre

Developing the skilled people who will shape the future of the land-based industries.

Merrist Wood College & University Centre is a leading land-based education provider, recognised by industry for the quality of its practical training and the success of its learners. Set within a 400-acre estate in Surrey, our specialist facilities provide an exceptional environment for developing the next generation of industry professionals.

Our recently completed £21 million development has transformed the campus, creating a modern, state-of-the-art learning environment alongside extensive outdoor training spaces, including woodlands, wetlands, gardens, grasslands, workshops, design studios, specialist glasshouses and a campus plant nursery.

Our experienced tutors bring valuable industry knowledge into the classroom and practical training environment, ensuring learners develop the skills, knowledge and professional behaviours needed to succeed in the workplace. Our learners have achieved national recognition in landscaping and arboriculture, with successes including BBC Gardeners’ World and work that has gained attention internationally.

Building the industry's future workforce

Merrist Wood College is more than a place to train. We are a pipeline of emerging talent for the land-based industries.

We work with employers to help develop the skilled workforce the sector needs, with opportunities to recruit apprentices, offer industry placements, engage with learners and contribute to the development of future skills.

For employers looking to invest in their workforce, apprenticeships offer a practical way to develop new talent while building the skills your business needs for the future.

Visit us at FutureScape 2026 to discover how Merrist Wood College & University Centre can support your business and help you access the next generation of talent.