A new horticulture education and training programme for adults has got underway at Yorkshire’s specialist adult education provider Northern College.

The horticulture innovation project aims to tackle staffing and skills shortages in the horticulture sector and is set to be backed by local employers and community organisations.

The programme provides learners with the knowledge, skills and vocational training to progress to the next level horticulture qualification or employment.

Based at Wentworth Castle, Barnsley, and set within 60 acres of National Trust gardens, the college provides short community courses and academic and vocational qualifications.

As the only adult residential college in the North of England, Northern College attracts hundreds of students every year from South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and further afield.

The first learners have started the programme, which has received £200,000 from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Adult Education Budget Innovation Fund.

Students complete an Introduction to Horticulture and Environmental Sustainability and have the chance to progress to the Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills at Levels 1 and 2.

Lee Kirton, Director of Quality and Curriculum Development, Northern College, said: “The green industry is growing. It will be more important than ever in job creation as well as addressing the bigger issues of our time such as climate change and sustainability.”

He added: “We are committed to raising aspirations, supporting adults into work and helping businesses secure the skills to grow. We are delighted to start this new programme which is well suited to our learning environment set in acres of National Trust gardens.”

Matt North, Programme Manager of the South Yorkshire Woodland Partnership, commented: “We are delighted to see Northern College developing this programme.

“We need to increase the amount of trees and woodlands as well as manage the woodlands and green spaces we already have for the benefit of people and wildlife. To achieve this, we need people who can do this work with up to date skills, knowledge and understanding.

“From research we are aware that there is a green skills shortage while there is a real demand from employers for well trained practitioners to carry out this work. This demand will continue to grow. In addition, community organisations can develop their skills and knowledge helping them increase their positive impact.

“This programme will help fill the skills gap regionally and nationally and support people in developing their career in sustainable environmental management.”

Future plans for students on the course include creating a community garden, a sensory space and establishing a social enterprise selling vegetables, produce and plants at the college.

The programme also covers skills such as business management, digital skills, marketing, budgeting and financial planning for those looking to start their own horticulture business or work in a managerial role in an established company.

The college already offers short horticulture courses and a Level 1 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills, and the new offer builds on that.

Northern College provides short courses as well as academic and vocational qualifications to adults mainly from South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire. Adults have the option to study residentially for some courses.

A key part of the college’s ethos is supporting adults, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to gain the skills and confidence they need to progress.

Find out more about the course and upcoming start dates.