The UK’s first Centre of Excellence in greenhouse growing has had a fruitful first year, yielding more than just bountiful crops. In a testament to its impact, a full tonne of fresh produce, grown by budding horticulturalists, has been donated to FareShare, a national food charity.
The Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence, a collaborative venture between Hadlow College, industry leader Thanet Earth, and innovative organizations like Growing Kent & Medway, has been a game-changer. This state-of-the-art facility, unveiled this summer, offers students a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience in commercial greenhouse cultivation.
By partnering with FareShare, the Centre of Excellence is not only shaping the future of UK horticulture but also making a significant contribution to local communities. The donated produce has provided over 2,260 meals to 27 charities and community groups, supporting those facing food insecurity.
Alan Harvey, Head of Horticulture at Hadlow College, expressed his pride in the Centre’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in nurturing the next generation of skilled horticulturists. Emma Brown, Commercial Manager Produce at FareShare UK, highlighted the vital role of fresh produce in combating food insecurity and thanked the Centre for its generous contribution.
As the Centre of Excellence continues to flourish, it promises to inspire and empower young people to embrace sustainable agriculture and contribute to a brighter future for the UK’s food industry.
For more details about the Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence @ Hadlow College visit the Hadlow College website.
FareShare is the UK’s national network of charitable food redistributors, made up of 18 independent organisations. They distribute good quality surplus food from across the food industry and to nearly 8,000 frontline charities and community groups, including school breakfast clubs, older people’s lunch clubs, homeless shelters, and community cafes. To find out more visit the FareShare website.