The Young Horticulturist of the Year competition has been launched, with round one taking place in February. The change from college-based rounds to direct online access for individuals has made it more accessible to many more people in the industry. If you are an employer, or college based lecturer please advertise this fabulous competition to staff and students. The ultimate prize is a £2,500 travel bursary that can create endless possibilities for the recipient.
The Social and Therapeutic Horticulture specialist interest group are holding the first network meeting of 2023 for members on 7th February. Details can be found on the website.
Membership numbers are continuing to grow at a steady pace. The value of professional recognition for individuals cannot be underestimated. There is a need to celebrate achievement, and more importantly through CPD help members to develop the skills needed to be the managers and leaders that our industry is looking for.
I have recently attended a network event at Reaseheath College to give a presentation on the Skills Gap and recruitment. It was attended by several employers from the area, together with college staff. It was an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and experiences. It highlighted the importance of communication between employers and those delivering the courses, and also the prospective changes in funding and qualifications. This is a positive step that is hopefully being re-created across Great Britain.
We continue to work collaboratively to highlight and progress the changes in qualifications. We are also working on many fronts to change the perception of horticultural careers and highlight the diversity within the industry.
Congratulations to the eight recipients of the LSA Fellowship awards. The two-year scheme offers many opportunities to attend conferences, meetings and study tours with the aim of increasing their knowledge. It also provides opportunities to join with previous Fellows to build up a strong network.
Industry news
Weather wise January was a challenging month with temperatures averaging -8°C in Great Britain. Coupled with high rainfall and snow this has made growing conditions challenging.
The Government’s five-year “Plant biosecurity strategy for Great Britain (2023 to 2028)” has recently been published with four outcomes, a world-class biosecurity regime, a society that values plant health, a biosecurity plant supply chain and enhanced technical capability.
January saw the return of the International Plant Fair IPM in Essen. Two UK growers and two Government officials spoke about exports, policy, peat and biosecurity.
Susan Nicholas FCIHort
PRESIDENT
president@horticulture.org.uk