EDUCATION, TRAINING & Employment

In late 2021 Brightview Farm undertook an extensive review and through consultation with identified beneficiaries and local communities. We reached a number of key conclusions:

• Almost one in five young people in parts of Essex lack work, education or training. Local Authorities therefore support programmes to improve young people’s attainment and levels of employment in line with national indicators.
• Essex organisations such as YMCA, Hope House Essex, Essex Partnership, Writtle University Agricultural College and Essex CYP have all highlighted a gap in provision for young people that is both practical and accessible.
• Local funders, such as Essex Community Foundation, are searching for projects that improve the long-term outcomes and independence of young people.
• Young people are interested and stimulated by land-based and outdoor learning opportunities, in particular those that lead to employment and increased self-esteem.
• Unless young people are able to attend a college or University, there are currently few opportunities to learn new skills in land-based activities, such as agriculture, equine, conservation and horticulture. These have great appeal and additionally support the current movement in environmental awareness.