What began as a project to create a new, innovative and attractive horticulture course for Katikati College students has morphed into offering education and pathways to employment for the wider community.
Teacher Hilary Johnson took on KKC’s horticulture department two years ago, when subject enrolments were dwindling but the local horticulture industry was screaming out for workers.
“Horticulture in schools doesn’t provide what the industry needs, or what tertiary providers need. “Traditionally, it’s been gardening – while every kid should learn how to grow vegetables, 16-17-year-olds should be learning something way more relevant to the industry,” says Hilary.