As the HTA attempts to tackle the alarming shortage of talented workers with a series of initiatives, Director General Carol Paris says: "We need to invest in horticulture now to secure its long term future.”
“The importance of horticulture to the UK cannot be overstated. It plays a fundamental role in the economy, society, the environment and in ensuring food security.
“With such a serious skills shortage in the sector we need to change perceptions to show the diversity of exciting opportunities that exist within horticulture and how this can offer a serious and rewarding career for talented people.”
HTA, with its own dedicated Training & Careers Team, has begun to tackle the issues highlighted within the report and will continue to support the wider ‘Timetable for Change’. Details are spelt out in HTA’s Strategy for developing people in the garden industry 2012-2014 but key actions include:
HTA Pathfinders Group - has been set up and will continue to expand. Group members will become Ambassadors for the industry - defining and implementing career initiatives – and presenting these to potential entrants and target audiences.
Apprenticeships - HTA are also encouraging members to consider apprenticeships by providing business examples of ‘Apprenticeships in Action’, followed with a guide on the benefits of recruiting apprentices from an employers’ perspective and how to do it. HTA has recognised the need to cut through the reams of information available on apprenticeships to ensure garden industry businesses have just what they need to make the right decisions.
Training – The availability of quality, relevant training and qualifications is key to enticing entrants that expect to be able to monitor their progression within the industry. HTA’s Garden Retail Diploma (accredited by Lantra Awards) provides a unique tool for this alongside workshop-based training available to members and the increased provision of e-learning.
Mapping careers – HTA is committed to mapping career paths to highlight entry points and progression opportunities for people with relevant skills but maybe working in different sectors.
Careers marketing – HTA will maintain its support for the GROW Careers initiative whilst ensuring the specific opportunities for careers in garden retailing, plant production, landscaping and garden product manufacturing are highlighted to potential entrants and the advisory services they rely on.
For further information on HTA’s careers activity click here
