The British Association of Landscape Industries’ own charity, the BALI Chalk Fund, has launched Chalk Fund Champions to help combat the industry skills gap.
This new funding scheme will open doors for individuals and businesses looking to support ongoing training and development in the landscape sector.
Trustees of the Chalk Fund have ambitious plans to increase both the level of funds raised and the amount of activity following the launch of the Champions, a scheme which provides an opportunity for individuals and companies to invest in the education, training, motivating and equipping of the next generation of landscape professionals.
The scheme is available across three tiers: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Starting from £250 per year, you could be one of the first ever Champions to display the logo on your company branding, showcasing your dedication and commitment for developing the future needs of the industry.
Chairman of the Trustees, Peter Jennins OBE, said: “Our latest Champions scheme starts the next chapter in our prestigious history. It is our belief that those individuals or companies that become Champions will have access to a better quality, work-ready talent pool, following their graduation from college or relevant training establishment.
“The more Champions we secure, the higher output can be achieved. We will also be continuing our work on the enrichment programme, working in partnership with GoLandscape and suppliers to provide hands-on training in the form of technical workshops, demonstrations and masterclasses, improving student’s knowledge and skillsets using current and future best practice.
“To-date, during the pilot phase, we have supported 60 students and issued 100 certificates through the programme.”
Since its formation in 1975, the Chalk Fund has received bequests and donations through a multitude of fund-raising activities and initiatives and this latest scheme hopes to increase the amount of funding available to enable the Trustees to plough additional resource into activities like the enrichment programme.
Chief Executive of the British Association of Landscape Industries, Wayne Grills, welcomed the news: “Chalk Fund Champions is exactly what this industry needs, a chance for business owners and employees to contribute towards a common goal, to improve the standard and quality of our future workforce.
“Your funds will help invest time, money, knowledge and skills with the hope it will save thousands of pounds a year for many landscaping businesses who struggle with recruitment and retention.
“By becoming a Champion, you could also add this to any future tender or awards bid, demonstrating your responsible approach to developing the future needs of our industry.”
The Bronze Champion tier costs £250 per year, Silver £500 and Gold £750. To view more details of what’s included click here.
