UK: New training partnership to support agri-food sector
The AFTP combines the complimentary skills and knowledge of six university partners who collectively are offering over 150 courses and workshops in all areas of agricultural production, environmental protection, food manufacture, scientific research and development and associated business and transferable skills.
Carol Wagstaff - Professor in Crop Quality for Health at the University of Reading and Director of the AFTP stated “We are delighted to be in the privileged position of receiving a further £1.5M from BBSRC to enable unification of the AFTP and expansion into new markets both at home and overseas. Today’s launch event marks the start of a tremendous opportunity for us to work together with the agrifood sector to deliver the skills the industry needs to drive increased productivity, profitability and sustainability for both pre and post farm gate agrifood businesses. In an era of climate change, food insecurity and an ever growing population, the AFTP is helping the industry’s best talent to deepen their knowledge, advance their skills and progress their careers through flexible training opportunities and continuing professional development.”
Karen Lewis - Interim Executive Director, Innovation and Skills, BBSRC added: “The agrifood sector is one of the UK’s largest industrial sectors, employing 3.9 million people, and delivering an estimated £20.1Bn in exports*. BBSRC is pleased to be funding the development of this high level skills programme that will enable the agrifood industry to benefit from the cutting edge knowledge and skills needed to improve productivity and grow the bioeconomy.”
David McAllister - Head of Skills and Careers at BBSRC said “A highly skilled and productive workforce is vital for the UK agrifood sector for it to remain globally competitive and contribute effectively to UK productivity and the industrial strategy. The AFTP, advised by industry practitioners, will help exchange cutting-edge knowledge and skills from the higher education research base to industry. This opportunity to improve skills whilst remaining in work is invaluable.”
Richard Simpson – Development Director, Kingshay Independent Dairy Specialists reported “I and several of my team have participated in the online training [offered by the previous ATPs] and we were attracted to the courses because of their flexibility. We have very much put what we have learned into practice in the projects we are doing. Having a better understanding of the science behind the subject has really helped both in project development and the advice we give to clients.”
Chris Wells - Managing Director, Leatherhead Food Research added “As well as being a partner in the founding of the ATP, we have also sent several of our team on courses there. This has built both skill and confidence in our business. By investing in top calibre capability we are able to offer real value in the science expertise and innovation advice we deliver to our global Food & Beverage members and clients.”
For more information:
www.aftp.co.uk