NFU horticultural advisor Chris Hartfield has called for a “horticultural careers tsar” to reposition the industry and pull in the next generation of talent.
He told visitors to the National Fruit Show in Kent last week that this is supported by the findings of the Fruit and Vegetable Task Force, which highlighted steps such as the land-based diploma for ages 14-19 and a website - www.growcareers.info - which provides information on horticultural careers.
“These initiatives alone are not enough,” Hartfield warned. “We need an overarching strategy that shows a career in horticulture is about prospects and a chance to develop new skills… The importance of reconnecting young people with food is widely recognised and understood, but it’s important that the industry seeks to maintain this interest in secondary schools and beyond.
“We believe we need an independent committee to drive this - we need a bottom up vocational and skills approach.”
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