Garden Water Features

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 3
Unit No:
R/617/1493
Credits:
4
Guided learning hours:
25 hours

Assessment Guidance

Learning Outcome 1:

Learners will be able to describe a range of water features and evaluate which form of water feature they would select for a given situation. Learners will evaluate different types of materials to be used for a given site environment or location.

Learning Outcome 2:

Learners will produce a written estimate with quantities of materials for a water feature. Learners will mark out and construct a water feature to an provided specification. Learners will describe a range of post installation quality checks to ensure water feature is working correctly and identify solutions for typical problems.

Learning Outcome 3:

Learners will produce a 12-month and 5-year maintenance schedule for a chosen water feature. Learners will evaluate the elements of a water feature in terms of health and safety considerations by producing a written report.

Aim

To provide learners with an understanding of how to choose, construct and maintain a range of water features. They will be able to select appropriate features and materials, construct a feature and outline a maintenance regime along with health and safety considerations.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.

Understand the different types of water features and their materials.

Water Features

• raised above ground
• below ground level
• off the shelf unit
• self contained
• waterfalls, streams and ponds
• pumps

Selection Criteria
• sun
• shade
• available space
• garden size
• topography
• soil conditions
• clients budget
• small children
• pets
• requirements for fish
• filtration system employed

Water Feature Materials
• glass fibre
• butyl sheets
• reinforced cement products
• natural stone
• rock
• slate
• concrete
• copper
• stainless steel
• chrome

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Describe different types of water features and evaluate their use on different sites.

  • 1.2

    Evaluate a range of materials used to construct water features.

2.

Be able to construct a water feature.

Requisition Schedule Production
• analysis of drawings
• taking off quantities
• units of measurement, linear, m2
• preparing schedule

Water Feature Construction
• excavation for ponds, streams
• preparation of foundations
• liner or mould installation
• excavate and lay pump cables
• edge detailing
• waterfall construction
• planting

Water Plant Maintenance
• sighting
• repotting
• gravel maintenance
• disease control

Quality Checks
• pump start and running
• pump timers
• waterfall height
• pump noise checks
• flow rates
• filtration UV
• filtration systems
• plant stability
• water quality

• final presentation handover checks

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Select and calculate materials required.

  • 2.2

    Mark out and install a water feature.

  • 2.3

    Explain the quality checks required before handover to a client.

3.

Know how to maintain water features.

Maintenance Schedules
• assemble schedule criteria
• plant maintenance intervals
• pump manufacturers data
• filtration manufacturers data
• short term repairs
• frost prevention measures
• water treatment options
• cleaning
• 12 month plan
• 5 year plan

Health and Safety
• depth of water
• edge detailing
• microorganism, legionnaires disease
• chemical treatment of water
• electrical safety
• bird deterrent
• control of ice build up

• public safety

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Produce a 12-month and 5-year maintenance schedule for a chosen water feature.

  • 3.2

    Evaluate safety considerations that should be given to water features.