YOUNG people from across Bromsgrove have just days left to apply to be part of Homebase Garden Academy.
Those who are 16 and over have until Sunday (June 15) to get their entries in for the scheme, which was launched by designer Adam Frost last year, to unearth the next generation of gardeners and raise the profile of gardening and gardening careers.
Those who are successful will be able to spend time with Mr Frost to learn about garden planning and design, work as well as learning practical horticultural skills to earn a Royal Horticultural Society Level 1 award.
At other times, students will also work full-time at the Bromsgrove Homebase to gain experience of garden retailing, building up their plant knowledge to help customers make the best choices for their garden.
Mr Frost said: “I’m increasingly worried that our next generation of young people are not connecting with what’s outside their back door.
“This is not only a social issue, but increasingly a challenge for our industry as young people are not excited by careers in gardening.
“I’ve been really inspired by what this year’s Garden Academy students have achieved – especially putting all of the skills they’ve learnt into practice by helping to build the Homebase show garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
“The Academy is a great opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together to share their passion for the outdoors and develop it into a career.”
This year’s intake is doubling to 24. To apply for a place on the Garden Academy, visit www.homebasegardenacademy.com before Sunday (June 15).
Those chosen will be invited to assessment days later this month.
Those completing the scheme to a satisfactory level will also have a job in their local store at the end of the training period.
