The Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) has completed a successful second block of its 2026/27 Management Development Programme, with delegates continuing to develop their leadership skills, confidence and professional networks ahead of the final residential session in January.

Delivered by Lindsay Muir of Cedar Associates at Pershore College, the nine-day programme is split into three residential blocks, bringing together emerging managers from across the horticultural industry for a combination of practical management training, discussion and shared learning.

Now in its second year, the programme was developed to address a gap in accessible management training for young horticultural professionals, particularly those working in smaller businesses where opportunities for formal development can be limited.

Nat Boynton, YPHA Co-Founder and programme lead, explained: "Horticulture is full of talented, passionate people who are brilliant at what they do, but being a good horticulturist doesn't automatically equip you to manage a team, handle difficult conversations or make business decisions.

"We need to make sure that people who love plants are also given the opportunity to develop the other skills they'll need as their careers progress. Too often, people find themselves promoted into management roles without ever having been given the training to succeed in them, and that's the gap we're trying to address with this programme."

The residential format has proved particularly valuable, allowing delegates from different sectors and businesses to share experiences, challenge their thinking and develop relationships that will continue beyond the course itself.

Sam Fry, of the Ramsbury Manor Foundation, is among the delegates taking part. Sam commented: "The course has already exceeded every expectation I had and continues to do so with every session. I feel so much more confident and capable in my role, and it's given me a whole host of tools that I've been able to implement and share at work with colleagues, as well as friends at other gardens and across the industry.

"Being surrounded by like-minded people has been incredibly useful and enjoyable. Sharing experience and knowledge is at the heart of horticulture and YPHA, and this course is fostering exactly that."

The third and final block, taking place from 19–21 January 2027, will include a special presentation evening, attended by programme sponsors and YPHA ambassadors.