Press Release
“Uniting a Growing Profession” - New IoH Council re-defines its principles
The Institute of Horticulture is to adopt a new ‘strap line’ which will communicate the focus of the exciting next phase in its development.
“Uniting a Growing Profession” is much more than a strap line or a slogan, it underlines the key objective of IoH over the next few years – to unify. “As a profession and an industry are strongest when we work together,” said President, Dr Heather Barrett-Mold. “That was what motivated people to form the Institute 25 years ago, and it remains the cornerstone of IoH.”
“Since the membership decided earlier this year they preferred to be represented by an independent organisation, we have been working hard to re-establish a firm foundation for the future expansion of the Institute and its activities”.
“We see the Institute’s key role as representing the professionalism which exists across the whole breadth of Horticulture. We want to be independent enough to be able to speak with a clear voice on horticultural issues, but we also recognise, and do not want to compete with, the excellent work being done by other organisations working within the industry.
At meeting of trustees and other advisors last week, wide-ranging discussions led to a number of key decisions being taken:
- Commissioning of a completely new website and develop high level and e-based professional services. (New website to be launched at the end of January 2009).
- To confirm appointment in each branch of an e-co-ordinator and to involve them in helping design the new website and manage the branch facilities being created within that framework.
- Ensure each branch membership co-ordinator takes the lead in recruiting members and managing their induction into the branch.
- Become a partner in the recently announced ‘Grow – your career in horticulture’ initiative.
- Support a special internet based network for Heads of Horticulture at key land based colleges.
- Organise a National Conference on the value added aspects of Horticulture. Thus to identify and demonstrate the economic, environmental, social, educational and cultural benefits of the Horticulture industry.
- Pilot a new grade of membership called e-affiliate member by recruiting horticultural lecturers and delivering a support service in partnership with Haymarket Publishing to support their professional activities.
- Reconstitute the Education and Training Steering Committee to act as a focal point for the discussion and dissemination of all matters relating to horticultural education and training, careers, qualifications and the development of education and training qualifications relevant and appropriate to the needs of the professional horticultural industry.
Also,
- Reports were received from the S.W, S.E, West Midlands and South Wales, Northern, Scottish and Irish Branches and Council was pleased to note the level of activity and plans for expansion.
- The treasurer reported that whilst the finances remained a concern, the successful relocation of the administration of the Institute to Capel Manor College, would ensure that funds were available to support the development programme.
For further details please contact:
Angela Evans – Institute of Horticulture co-ordinator - 01992 707025
Dr Heather Barrett-Mold – President – Institute of Horticulture
Dr S. R. Dowbiggin – Council Member