Careers in horticulture are very much in our focus. We have been working collaboratively during what is a very challenging time to highlight and promote the opportunities available to both young people and career changers. Grow Careers on 16th November is a hybrid event open to all. You can sign up on the website to attend.
Baroness Fookes, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Ornamental Horticulture, has led a parliamentary debate in the House of Lords on ‘Supporting the provision of careers in the horticultural sector and its role in protecting the environment’.
The Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH) have recently held two meetings with industry leaders who are collaborating to create a careers platform that is scheduled to be launched in spring 2023. Sadly, at present it does not extend to all Great Britain and is focused on production.
We continue to build up collaborative links and have recently met with a number of like-minded organisations to seek ways in which we can work together for the benefit of our profession.
The second consultation of Further Education funding closed on 22nd October. The outcomes will significantly change the shape of education provision.
The Social and Therapeutic Horticulture specialist interest group have now appointed Sue Crosby as the chair and Sue Jeffries as their vice chair. They have a strong committee, and have identified three areas to focus on, Knowledge and Best Practice sharing, Science and Practice and Careers. They are planning their first events for members to take place early in the new year.
The LSA CT Fellowship scheme have extended the deadline for applications. The closing date is 4th November, so only a few days to apply. The aim of the scheme is to develop the next leaders of the commercial horticulture industry; assisting developing professionals in the industry and to facilitate engagement with strategic leaders.
I have recently met with Past President Leigh Morris who is now situated in the Isle of Man. Although membership numbers are small, he has recently arranged a number of events, to bring them together, and encourage other local horticulturists to join. If you are situated on the island, please contact Leigh (this can be arranged via the secretariat).
The financial pressures continue to cause concern, and hopefully over the coming months we will see some stability. Defra ministers Mark Spencer and Trudy Harrison have been reappointed by new PM Rishi Sunak, serving under new Defra secretary of state Therese Coffey.
Susan Nicholas FCIHort
PRESIDENT
president@horticulture.org.uk