A pilot horticulture apprenticeship scheme has kicked off in the West Sussex region.
The West Sussex Growers’ Association (WSGA) has partnered with training provider Management Development Services (MDS) to cultivate the next generation of horticultural experts and leaders.
Tangmere, the UK’s largest dedicated grower of sweet bell peppers, is a supporter of the programme. Their apprentice Aaron has just begun his six-month placement at the Tangmere nursery, where he’s gaining hands-on industry experience and insights into the daily workings of horticulture while he works towards a level 3 supply chain lead qualification.
Before applying for the apprenticeship, Aaron attended taster days at local horticulture businesses, where he was impressed by the scale of production right on his doorstep. He said, “I’m excited by the variety of the horticulture apprenticeship programme. Not only does it offer me industry work placements with four leading UK growers, but the chance to experience different departments within each business to see where my interests lie and which role I’d like to specialise in.”
Aaron’s training will involve rotating through various departments within Tangmere, including agronomy, production, and packhouse operations. This structure is designed to offer apprentices like Aaron the chance to develop practical skills and explore areas of personal interest in horticulture. Tangmere’s Packhouse Head of Operations, James Bardgett, notes the value of this approach: “Aaron will gain real-life, hands-on skills alongside industry experts, experiencing key areas of the business.”
WSGA hopes this pilot scheme will encourage more young people to consider a future in horticulture. Rachel Williams from WSGA said, “This pilot scheme offers a holistic view of horticulture in West Sussex, and we hope, will equip Aaron and subsequent candidates with the skills to be our leaders of the future.”
