The Homebase gardening academy was set up last year in 2013. The apprenticeship scheme was set up to encourage and support students wanting to delve into the world of gardening. The students worked alongside award winning garden designer, Adam Frost who met with them every month to teach them about planting and landscaping. The students also spent a significant amount time based in their local Homebase store gaining hands on experience in gardening retail.

The students of the Homebase Garden academy have all graduated and gained qualifications with the Royal Horticulture society. The talented students and their success have proudly represented the academy in its first year; this success has resulted in the academy doubling the number of places they offer.

Adam Frost commented on the past years students saying: “I‘m very proud of how far the students have come over the past year. They have fully embraced every opportunity and it was a great honour to get to know them.”

The aim of the Homebase Garden academy was to excite the younger generation about the gardening industry and to encourage them to consider and pursue a profile as a gardener.

The past years students reflected on their time at the Homebase Garden academy. Many stated that their highlight was shadowing Adam Frost whilst building The Homebase garden at the Chelsea Flower Show. They garden went on to win a Gold medal.

Many of the students who participated in the academies scheme will continue working in a Homebase store offering well-informed advice to customers. Several other students will be working in the stores head office as advisors and buyers.