ICF Joins Woodland Skills Seminar at Highgrove
On 14th February, 2014, ICF’s Executive Director Shireen Chambers and Deputy Director Russell Horsey joined leading figures in Forestry, and HRH the Prince of Wales, at a Highgrove seminar to discuss forestry skills, learning and development.
The Duchy of Cornwall and the Forestry Commission developed the event to bring together private and public sector forestry representatives to address learning and development in the workforce.
Speakers included Oliver Rackham OBE, Peter Bonfield OBE and Graham Taylor (representing Pryor and Rickett Silviculture).
His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, described by the Forestry Commission as “a great supporter of developing and promoting forestry and woodland management skills”, also attended.
Workshops, facilitated by the Forestry Commission, explored how cross-organisational partnerships within the forestry industry could be created or further developed. Attending organisations, including ICF offered a commitment to work together for the benefit of the industry.
Ian Gambles, Director of Forestry Commission England, commented:
“Everyone involved in forests and woodlands today has a duty to play their part in developing the next generation of foresters. The scientific and practical skills needed to manage our woodlands will be needed more and more as markets strengthen and woodland cover grows, and we must invest in them now.
“The Forestry Commission is a key employer, supporting many apprentices and graduates and is committed to working in partnership with others to enable the growth of forestry education and skills for the future.”
Growth and Innovation
The event came hot on the heels of recent reports of a significant forestry sector skills gap. ICF joined leading forestry organisations at the event including Confor, CLA, Forest Schools Association, Woodland Heritage, The Crown Estate, Sylva Foundation, UK Forest Products Association, Royal Forestry Society and UPM Tilhill. Shireen said:
“The Institute of Chartered Foresters looks forward to working with HRH The Prince of Wales to improves skills within our sector. We will work with partners to foster growth and innovation, encouraging business and management training for foresters and arboriculturists through Continuous Professional Development.”
