Pioneering greenhouse growing school opens

Students using the giant greenhouse will specifically focus on growing tomatoes

A school dedicated to vegetable horticulture is training the next generation of “greenhouse technical specialists” to grow salad and vegetables.

The Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence, at Hadlow College, near Tonbridge, was opened during British Tomato Week in response to concerns about the lack of skilled workers in the sector.

Students using the giant greenhouse will specifically focus on growing tomatoes in a commercial environment.

Rob James, technical director at Thanet Earth, said: “There are incredible careers available across the fresh produce supply chain."

Just 17% of fruit and 55% of vegetables consumed in the UK are grown domestically, according to the 2024 UK Food Security Index.

Mr James said: “Collaboration between education and industry is critical to changing perceptions of the sector and ensuring young people develop relevant, practical, and employable skills.”

L-R: Chris Lydon, Hadlow College vice Principal, Alan Harvey, head of curriculum for Horticulture & Floristry at Hadlow College, leader of Kent County Council Roger Gough, Dr Nikki Harrison, director at Growing Kent & Medway, and Robert James, technical director for Thanet Earth.

The Centre of Excellence is the first of its kind in the UK.

Nikki Harrison, director at food and drink innovation project Growing Kent & Medway, a partner in Thanet Earth’s greenhouse school, said the centre will facilitate a pipeline of new talent and skills required to keep the south east at the forefront of horticultural innovation.

“Linking industry with education ensures that the training provided reflects the latest crop production techniques and knowledge available in modern growing practices," Dr Harrison said.

“We hope this is the first of many collaborations between industry and further education to address the critical skills shortage our industry faces.”