The Colgrave Seabrook Foundation has created a ‘Named Fund’ in recognition of the considerable investment and ongoing extensive support from Smart Garden Products.
In 2023, the Foundation created the Smart Garden Products Student Scholarship in conjunction with the company, sponsoring and supporting students studying horticulture with their learning. In addition to the financial support students receive, they also have the opportunity to take part in the unique Student Development Tour which exposes them to a range of businesses in Horticulture all aimed at inspiring students in their chosen career.
Paris Natar, the Chairman at Smart Garden said: “Smart Garden Products recognise the importance of their customers – garden centres – having access to well qualified, skilled employees and as such, are delighted to be supporting the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation by sponsoring the Student Scholarships.”
The creation of a ‘Named Fund’ recognises individuals and companies who support the work of the Foundation, and acknowledge that it’s not just about making a contribution, it’s about making a difference by creating opportunities for students that will have a lasting impact on the industry for years to come.
Paris added: “We have strong relationships with garden centres and want to play our part in guaranteeing their longevity and success. Encouraging the next wave of horticulturalist to join the sector and learn new skills and seek career opportunities is a logical move for us. Hopefully the receiving of financial support alongside the fascinating insight gained from a visit to the heartbeat of our business will live long in the memory of the students and help inspire their next steps”.
A certificate was presented by Trustees of the Foundation on Thursday at Smart Garden Products main distribution hub, the Eurika Building at Peterborough when Paris said: “it is a great pleasure to welcome students into our business and it does us good to break out of our normal routine and do something really useful, namely, to play a very small part in training the next generation of horticulturalists.”
To find out more about the work of the Foundation and the support for students and industry go to their website:
www.colegraveseabrookfoundationorg.uk
