In the Netherlands, Aeres VMBO's greenhouse was in need of an overhaul. Local growers from the Nieuwland foundation joined forces to modernize it. It now offers schoolchildren a way to get a good impression of greenhouse horticulture.
This foundation is trying to encourage a connection between local scholars and horticultural companies. The growers see it as a challenge to introduce schoolchildren to all glasshouse horticulture has to offer. Starting with a part-time job while still at school, in one of the many local growers' greenhouses, and later perhaps doing further education or having a career in this.
The Aeres VMBO greenhouse has sections for bedding plants, perennials, and strawberries. It also uses modern techniques like a robotic cultivation table. That will let the kids see how high-tech greenhouse farming is nowadays.
"It's so much more than just growing a plant or strawberry. In the greenhouses, besides cultivation, there's also plenty of technology, something of which many schoolchildren are wholly unaware," says grower Frido Wouters of Kwekerij Wouters.
In the coming weeks, 400 schoolkids will visit the upgraded greenhouse. Local growers are optimistic about this and look forward to a great collaboration.
For more information:
Glastuinbouwgebied Nieuwland
Tel: +31 (0) 611 262 132
Email: info@nieuwlandflevo.nl
Website: www.nieuwlandflevo.nl
AERES VMBO Emmeloord
16 De Balkan
8303 Gz, Emmeloord, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 880 205 100
Email: vmbo.emmeloord@aeres.nl
Website: www.aeresvmbo.nl/emmeloord