Improving Groundscare education
Concerned about an impending skills gap the IOG has taken the initiative to develop a vocational skills training programme for 14-16 year olds. The National Practical Certificate, an established and recognised induction level qualification, is currently being delivered to school children through the national curriculum. Piloted via the Specialist Sports Colleges network, the scheme is now gathering momentum and has been praised and encouraged by Ofsted.
Case study 1 - Ashton on Mersey
During 2008 we completed the programme for the latest group of 23 students (including 16 female students) on the NPC programme, with the majority passing the test with flying colours and going away with a real taste for a career in grounds maintenance.
A further two groups of Year 10 students will attempt the NPC over the next 2 years. Alongside this the IOG will run another programme aimed at students identified as ‘Not in Education Employment or Training’ [NEET]. We will deliver both the NPC and the 9352 Level 1 Horticultural Skills to a number of NEET students over a 30 week period from September 2008 until April 2009.
The IOG are also pleased to have been invited to sit as an advisor to Ashton on Mersey on the Consortium Panel. This panel will determine how the 14-19 year old diplomas will be delivered to children in the Trafford area of Manchester which will include over 20 schools.
Case study 2 - Harefield Academy
Five students at Harefield Academy in Bedfordshire successfully completed the 9352 Level 1 in Horticultural Skills. This was a great success and further groups have been identified for the programme in 2009.
A full review of both case studies are available from the menu on the right.
Following the pilots of the above schemes we are in discussions with a number of other educational establishments to deliver similar programmes to their pupils. Over the next four years we would like to see an established, countrywide uptake of this initiative in schools, ensuring that groundsmanship is a career of choice for today’s young people.
If you or your school would like further information please contact a member of the Training team on 01908 312511 or by email, training@iog.org.
