In September, Sheepdrove will be hosting a free training course for new growers. Funded by North Wessex Downs AONB and Farming in Protected Landscapes, the 5-day hands-on course will be delivered by edge, a Newbury based non-profit landscape design agency specialising in sustainable food production, and takes place in the market garden and poly tunnel on the farm.
edge works with a number of market gardens across the country and there are many opportunities to create an income as a producer. edge will be teaching learners about the crops which are the most productive and efficient to grow, guiding on market prices, packaging and where to sell. Crucially, there will also be opportunities for students to continue to grow in the market garden at Sheepdrove on completion of the course under the mentoring of edge’s founder Rachel Hammond.
Places on the course are strictly limited to 15 students with priority given to those not in work or education or those who wish to return to work or change career from a low skilled job into horticulture. If you might interested in attending, please get in touch; if you know anyone who might be interested, please spread the word!
edge landscaping uk (edge)
Rachel Hammond
grow@edgelandscaping.uk
01635 770123 / 07731 820287
Rachel says “This course will cover all the basics of food production, soil health, biodiversity and the business essentials which will enable participants to go on to grow on their own, from fruit and veg to herbs and nuts. Growing without chemicals is essential to protect the environment, as well as being cheaper for the grower, plus delivers higher yields when designed correctly. We hope that this course encourages more people to get into growing food as there is a huge shortage of good food growers and the demand for local food is only growing”.
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