Fruit production is far and away one of Kent’s most important farming sectors.

The county is the largest producer of top fruit (fruit that grows on trees) and we have some of the best growers in the UK.

Although the global market resulted in some lean years for the industry, rising demand for British-grown fruit has transformed the situation.

All this is upbeat and positive. However, there is one significant problem that could upset the apple cart.

The fruit industry has become increasingly dependent on people from Eastern Europe to fill jobs, not only seasonal but also permanent senior roles.

This level of dependence on imported skills is not sustainable because, as the farming industries in Bulgaria and Romania develop and expand – as is already happening in Poland – there will be no reason for people to come over here to find work.

Nine months ago a steering group of leading growers discussed what could be done to future-proof the skill needs of the fruit sector.

It was agreed that apprenticeships designed to prepare entrants for supervisory and management roles were the answer. In order to remove the barriers applying to government-funded apprenticeships, sponsorship was sought from the private sector.

It’s been a long haul to reach the final stages but now the end is in sight. The structure of the three-year apprenticeship programmes agreed with industry has been fully accredited by NCFE. Sponsorship has been agreed with two businesses that provide services for the fruit industry.

These sponsors are providing £10,000 between them, covering the training costs of an apprentice during the three year indentured period. The apprentices will be paid by their employers throughout their training.

The Fruit Apprenticeship Programme, which breaks entirely new ground, fills a real gap and completed apprentices are guaranteed challenging and progressive jobs in a vibrant, successful and technologically advanced industry.

There are no barriers to application and graduates and others excluded from government-funded schemes can apply.

Selection will be competitive and include interviews with sponsors, employers and trainers. The intention is to indenture the first two apprentices by the end of June. Additional sponsorship is being sought with a view to an increase in the number of apprenticeship opportunities available.

Application forms can be obtained by sending an SAE to Pat Crawford, Hadlow College, Hadlow, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 OAL.