Pro-Force Ltd, together with the SCION Group of Growers, has formulated a plan to assist fresh produce growers in sourcing crop picker requirements, with the added benefit of increased productivity through an investment in focussed training.
Pro-Force has launched its Picking School to provide to the soft fruit, top fruit and vegetable growers with a pre-trained workforce in response to the gradual demise of the Student Agricultural Workers Scheme (SAWS). The workforce will have had the benefit of up to two weeks of classroom and on-the-job training, designed to increase productivity through work preparation and greater efficiency.
Pro-Force Ltd recruits trainees directly from Eastern Europe, where potential workers are shown instructive videos on crop picking before the interview and selection process is carried out. Only those who show that they posses strong motivation are considered. The training programme offers the opportunity to earn significantly more than the minimum wage and the prospect of returning, already trained, to the farm next year.
Bill Harris, co-ordinator for the SCION said: “The value of such a scheme to our members is immeasurable. As a collective, we are striving to find solutions to the various issues and problems facing the farming and nursery industry. The Picking School is another initiative that goes hand in hand with our unique Core Worker Programme which, assisted with funding from Defra and South East England Development Agency, provides continuous training and development of seasonal staff.”
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