The cost-of-living crisis is putting pressure on everybody in a variety of ways, but perhaps none more so than those starting out on their career in commercial horticulture. The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is seeing a significant increase in applications for scholarships in its 2025 season.

Students who are studying horticulture in the UK can apply for a scholarship which gives them valuable financial support. Funds awarded, through a straightforward application process, can be used towards course fees, travel, research and the basic cost of living of being a student. 

One scholarship proving popular this year is the new Wyevale Nurseries Scholarship. Set up by the forward looking, family business, now run by the third generation of the Williamson family, who recognise that students are the future of our industry, has a particular focus on students who have an interest in commercial, ornamental plant production. 

Andy Johnson, Wyevale’s Managing Director, says: “Wyevale Nurseries is delighted to add its name and support to the encouragement of horticulturists in their early career stages. We are part of a diverse and rewarding industry and see working with the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation in their well established programme as a simple and clear way to stand alongside others in the industry to demonstrate the value we place on supporting new talent and the development of skills and industry knowledge.”

Wyevale Nurseries, established in 1930 in Hereford, has made it their mission to maintain their heritage, while driving the business forward. A truly pioneering company, built from humble beginnings see their long-term success is innovating in production methodology, reviewing and raising environmental targets and investing in infrastructure and personnel. Their management team know without good people they have no business, and growing people is as fundamental as growing plants to their success.

Applications for the Wyevale Nurseries Scholarship, and the many others available, should be made now via the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation website [www.colegraveseabrookfoundation.org.uk] where full details can be found.