Unique organisation produces range of organically grown fresh herbs
Cultivate London is an innovative urban farm producing a range of high quality, organically grown fresh herbs for sale to local households, shops and restaurants.
But this is no ordinary business.
Established in January 2011, Cultivate London has three main objectives:
1. To convert derelict and vacant land across London into productive food growing space
2. To generate training opportunities and jobs for unemployed young people aged 16-25 in practical horticulture
3. To reduce carbon emissions associated with food production and transportation.
The organisation is unique in the way they convert derelict and vacant land across London into small, commercially viable herb farms. To date, they have secured two sites to work on in 2011 with a third to follow in 2012.
Cultivate London has also been granted use of a disused allotment by Ealing and Brentford Consolidated Charity and are working in partnership with local schools and youth services to provide free space to younger and more vulnerable students so that they can learn to grow and enjoy the benefits of open space.
Training
Cultivate London exists to support young people gain skills, work experience and access into ongoing employment. During 2011, they will offer 10 trainee positions to:
• young people currently unemployed and no longer engaged in education
• aged between 16-25 years
• current residents of Ealing and Hounslow boroughs
Volunteer Traineeship
Initially, young people work on Cultivate London growing sites voluntarily as trainees. They provide practical, hands on work and learning in:
• Manual handling
• Constructing sheds and polytunnels
• Sowing, planting, watering and harvesting culinary herbs
• Health and safety
A volunteer trainee must do a minimum of 60 hours work with Cultivate London and during this time, exhibit a high degree of motivation to work and learn. Once 60 hours have been completed, the volunteer trainee will be considered for an apprenticeship, either with Cultivate London or with one of their partner companies who is willing and able to take on entry level staff.
Apprenticeships
Cultivate London apprentices will achieve a Diploma in Amenity Horticulture, delivered by Caple Manor College, whilst working 28 hours each week. An apprenticeship lasts between 12-18 months, depending on how quickly the apprentice gets through the course work.
If you’re interested in joining Cultivate London and fit the eligibility criteria, please get in touch with Leah McPherson via their website or on 020 8579 0363.
July 27, 2011
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