RHS Ambassadors hit the road to inspire the next generation of horticultural stars
Award-winning designer and Gardeners’ World presenter, Adam Frost, and YoungHort co-founder, Jamie Butterworth, are criss-crossing the country to enthuse the horticultural stars of the future. The RHS Ambassadors, whose role it is to inspire the next generation of young horticulturists, will be helping to judge the Society’s national ‘Green Plan It’ schools’ competition, at eight events across the UK.
From Glasgow to Bristol, Adam and Jamie will be meeting with hundreds of secondary school pupils who have taken part in the challenge to design an innovative new school or community garden – providing the teams of youngsters with feedback on their creations, expert advice and tips on how to get a dream job in horticulture.
The pupils have been developing their designs over ten weeks, working alongside expert mentors from the local area, to gain insights into what it’s like to work in the £10 billion horticultural sector.
The teams of 12 to 14 year olds are competing to win prizes for their projects and will be rewarded for innovation and team work.
Speaking about the project, Adam Frost said: “I can’t wait to meet with the next generation of budding garden designers, landscape architects or plant scientists and discuss the inventive designs they’ve been working on. I want to share my love of gardening with them and open up their minds to the fantastic career opportunities that exist in the horticultural world.”
Jamie Butterworth added: “The pupils have been given a real-life insight into what it’s really like to work in the industry and the many exciting avenues of horticulture to explore. I would have loved to have been given this opportunity when I was at school and I hope it inspires those who may not have previously considered a career in horticulture to think-twice about their options.”
RHS head of community outreach, Andrea Van-Sittart said: “The pupils have worked with expert industry mentors to develop some amazing designs. I’m sure that they are looking forward to celebrating their achievements and will find meeting Adam or Jamie hugely inspirational.
“That leading industry figures and mentors have given up their time to invest in the next generation speaks volumes about their commitment to ensuring that young people learn more about the diverse and rewarding horticultural sector.”
The RHS project was designed to support young people to develop a range of new skills, including teamwork, design and planning, as well as introducing them to the wide range of career options that exist within horticulture.
