CASE STUDY
THE PROJECT
From 2023, the West Sussex Growers Association (WSGA) worked with Careers Leaders, and the West Sussex, Brighton and Hove Careers Hub to develop and deliver a programme of educational engagement to change student perceptions of horticulture and inspire them to pursue careers in edible and ornamental crop growing.
Aims: to highlight the breadth of horticulture careers locally to students from Year 7 up, to link curriculum teaching to horticulture careers (resources/workshops), to inform students of pathways into horticulture (T Levels, A Levels, degrees, apprenticeships, direct employment).
Gatsby Benchmarks met: BM2 (learning about local careers opportunities) BM4 (pre- and post-assembly subject teaching resources provided) / BM6 (experiences of the workplace / BM7 (meaningful encounters with providers of apprenticeships.)
OUTCOMES
- In 2024/2025, more than 5,000 Year 8 and 9 students and teachers in 11 schools experienced the interactive WSGA assembly on sustainability and horticulture.
- Follow up activities included a horticulture-themed Maths lessons, workplace visits, an interview skills workshop, work experience.
- The launch of a pilot 18+ apprenticeship programme.
Next steps:
- In 2025/2026, the WSGA will deliver an additional interactive assembly for Year 9 students.
- The aim is to reach 8,000 students with assemblies for Years 7, 8 and 9 in 2025/2026.
- 12 West Sussex Schools will be targeted, as well as some Alternative Provisions (APs).
- A new WSGA website with a Student Hub where students can learn more about pathways and careers.
IMPACT
“At the 5 growers, I developped transferable skills that will be valuable in any future career. I collaborated with different people and learnt so many aspects of the varied horticulture industry.”
Lucy Foss, Year 10 work experience student Ormiston Six Villages Academy
Teacher feedback
A lovely assembly, great to see the students engaged and really valuable for careers.
Vivienne Silverthorne, Head of Year 7, Midhurst Rother College
