The British Association for Landscape Industries (BALI) recently visited a group of Level 2 Horticulture students and apprentices at Bridgwater and Taunton College.

The students received an engaging and informative session in which they found out about the exciting range of careers available within the horticulture and landscaping industries.

Stephen Ensell, Education Officer and Richard Gardiner, Technical Officer at BALI, also introduced a bursary scheme to the students which is kindly provided by the BALI Chalk Fund. The bursary allows students to gain financial support to gain industry-required qualifications in land-based machinery such as brush cutters and mowers, as well as pesticide application certification.

Tom Cunningham, Curriculum Manager for Agriculture, Food and Land Management said;

The students benefit massively from engagement with external employers and industry representatives and we give thanks to Stephen and Richard for their time in sharing their experience of such an exciting industry. The bursary scheme that is generously provided by BALI, offers an opportunity for students to gain qualifications which are often essential criteria for employers and therefore enhance our students’ employability skills.

BALI have developed a sub-brand ‘GoLandscape’, which offers information and careers advice on opportunities within the horticulture sector and their website is a go-to resource for anyone interested in the industry.