Westmeath Community Development launches new horticulture training facilities
New training facilities for Westmeath Community Development's Horticulture Programme were launched on Friday last (June 21) at Belvedere House and Gardens, Mullingar.
A large number of people turned out to launch the new Horticulture training facilities which contain a large training room, a fully equipped laboratory and a beautiful landscaped area that was designed and built by John Smyth, Horticulture tutor, and Westmeath Community Development's current students in just two weeks.
The new facilities are located in the overflow car park in Belvedere House and Gardens which is a central location for practical horticulture training in the walled garden, the fairy garden and access to the glasshouse and polytunnels in partnership with Westmeath County Council.
“We knew the project was growing and the demand was clear with over fifty people on the waitlist each year. After evaluating the current programme it was clear that we needed better resources and facilities to carry out training to a higher standard”, said Majella Maher, Co-ordinator.
“A year and half ago we approached FAS and they provided the two training facilities which was delivered on site last December and with the support of Westmeath Community Development the facilities are equipped to a high standard.”
The facilities will enhance learning for future students and modules like soil science and plant science can now be delivered in a fully equipped laboratory.
Since 2009, the course has developed to such an extent that some of its landmark achievements include Dermot O’Neill’s Secret Garden series on RTE, building and fundraising of the LARCC garden in Multyfarnham, the goddess Eriu landscape monument and the further development of the walled garden at Belvedere House and Gardens.
The event also included the graduation of 17 students who completed this year’s Level 5 Horticulture programme. Terri Clarke, FAS, presented the students with their Level 5 Major award certificates. To date, almost 60% of the students have progressed to employment and third level education form this course.
Commenting on the course, John Smyth, Assistant Co-Ordinator, acknowledged “ the students' hard work, and their dedication to their studies. They should be very proud of their achievements and we wish them every success in their Horticultural futures.”
“The course would not be possible without the support of the various agencies and we are extremely grateful to the staff and agencies for their assistance, in particular Jimmy Dalton and Maurice Stenson from Westmeath County Council, Terri Clarke from FAS and Joe Potter from Westmeath Community Development, and we look forward to their continued support”, stated Ms Maher.
The next programme is due to commence on Monday, July 15, for 43 Weeks. For more information on the course, contact Co-Ordinator Majella Maher 087-7923349 or email mmaher@westcd.ie or go to www.westcd.ie.