Outstanding Horticultural Students Recognised
The Chartered Institute of Horticulture have awarded their Pam Pointer Awards for 2023 to Joe Lofthouse and Melanie Davies. The award is made to recognise outstanding practical and academic achievements as nominated by their respective education provider.
The recipients are rewarded with an experiential prize of attending an industry event, in this case Melanie and Joe were supported to attend the recent Tree Forum Meeting organised by Plant Network and the Chartered Institute of Horticulture held at Birmingham University.
“Congratulations to Melanie and Joe and I am delighted they have been able to join the Tree Forum to learn from the various speakers and network with other industry professionals. This prize, was designed to give an opportunity to the winners to engage with professional events and provide a worthwhile learning experience that supports their future development.”
CIH Hon. Secretary Jason Daff CHort MCIHort.
Melanie has recently completed the BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Horticulture at Plumpton college. Whilst studying, Melanie participated in independent work experience placements with the National Trust at Sissinghurst Castle and with Athelas Plants, a specimen plant nursery where she has since secured employment. She was nominated by Plumpton College’s Joanne Smyth who described Melanie as having a super work ethic and always ready to support her peers where necessary.
Joe was nominated by RHS Garden Harlow Carr Curator Paul Cook, who describes him as a great role model for the profession. Joe has been studying for the RHS Master of Horticulture qualification as well as being promoted to Team Leader in the new role of Productive and Nursery teams at Harlow Carr.
Members can read Melanie and Joe’s review of the Tree Forum Meeting in the December edition of The Horticulturist.
A further two awardees of the Pam Pointer Award for 2023 are Jazmine Devereaux and Donné Perold who were sadly unable to attend the presentation at the Tree Forum. Jazmine is a Level 3 Horticulture learner at Sparsholt College, acting as a Student Ambassador in her spare time. Donné is a Crop Technician Level 3 Apprentice at Pershore College who has been working at Crocus in Windlesham for the duration of her course.
Applications for the 2024 awards will open in April, to learn more about this opportunity, interested candidates should consult the CIH website or contact the CIH Development Officer Helen Sessions developmentofficer@horticulture.org.uk
Image caption: Pam Pointer Prize Winners Joe Lofthouse and Melanie Davies collecting their awards at the Tree Forum Meeting at the University of Birmingham