About Our School
Our History
For more than 45 years, ACS Distance Education has been providing specialist distance learning to students around the world. Since our establishment in 1979, more than one million students have studied ACS courses, with programmes now delivered directly and through affiliated colleges in several countries.
1979 - The Beginning
ACS was founded by horticulturist and educator John L. Mason, who recognised that many aspiring horticulturalists were unable to secure places at traditional colleges. He developed a practical distance learning model that enabled students to study from anywhere, launching the Australian Horticultural Correspondence School in 1979 with its first intake of 37 students.
Expanding Internationally
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, ACS rapidly expanded beyond Australia. The school became an early adopter of computer-based learning and online education, attracting students from more than 25 countries while building an international reputation for practical, industry-focused training.
Establishing in the United Kingdom
In 2002, ACS established its UK office to better support students throughout the United Kingdom, Europe and the Northern Hemisphere. This allowed students to study with local administration and tutor support while accessing the same high-quality course materials that had already earned ACS an international reputation.
During this period, ACS also developed a strong relationship with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), delivering RHS qualifications internationally and working alongside leading horticultural educators to further strengthen course quality and practical relevance.
Innovation in Distance Learning
Over the years, ACS has continually invested in new educational technologies and teaching methods. We introduced online learning long before it became mainstream, developed our own Learning Management System, transitioned to digital course materials, and expanded our range of professional development and short courses to meet changing industry needs.
Today
Today, ACS offers more than 600 courses across horticulture, agriculture, environmental management, business, health, science and many other disciplines. Students from around the world choose ACS for practical, flexible and industry-relevant education designed to support career development, professional growth and lifelong learning.
With founder John L. Mason continuing to guide educational development, and Nicholas L. Mason leading the organisation, ACS remains committed to providing high-quality education that reflects current industry practice and the needs of today's learners.
Aside from teaching; ACS has also always been involved in publishing. Over a period of 30 years, John Mason and staff at the school have also been contracted to write over 40 books for both national and international publishers including Kangaroo Press, Leisure Press (New York), Harper Collins, CSIRO/Landlinks Press and Hyland House.
Meeting with Staff and Affiliates in Birmingham, UK
[03/08/2026 23:25:23]