A recent workshop on nursery industry career pathways has identified opportunities for the industry to address gaps in certified training programs and provide the industry with a learning framework that supports early entrants into the Greenlife industry and industry employers.
The workshop which was held on 11 November brought together educators, industry representatives, and production nursery operators facilitating discussion around prototype courses to further enhance professional pathways for the nursery sector.
Hosted by RMCG in partnership with Greenlife Industry Australia under the Hort Innovation project NY17002 Developing Nursery Career Pathways, the workshop also aimed to provide participants with an overview of the project, earlier research on skills gaps and of the Skills Impact new training packages.
Identifying an opportunity to develop a foundational learning framework for early career candidates for the industry, the Project Team now urgently seeks additional feedback on the specific topic areas and subjects which growers and garden retailers find most beneficial for new entrants in the industry.
Growers and retailers are asked to respond to a short six question survey to support the continued development of the early entrant development framework.
Complete the survey here.
Other opportunities identified during the workshop include:
- New models of training delivery including blended models of online theory and practical block training.
- Establishment of a centre of excellence.
- Options for flexibility within existing training packages to adapt outputs to address industry needs.
The project continues to June 2021 and includes the publication of career pathway profiles, a careers guide and the launch for an industry careers hub.
For more information on the project growers and retailers encouraged to get in touch with Sonya Gifford at Greenlife Industry Australia via sonya.gifford@greenlifeindustry.com.au.