We are encouraging our members to put forward their employees for our Rising Stars programmes taking place throughout the year (2025).

We are thrilled to announce the return of our Rising Stars programme, proudly sponsored by Westland Horticulture.

The application process is now open. If garden centre managers or owners have an outstanding staff member who would thrive with some personal development, they should seriously consider nominating them for the programme.

This year, the gardening-based programme will be led by Gordon Emslie and will follow a similar structure to previous years. Candidates selected for the programme will participate in a series of workshops and attend various locations and events throughout the year. The workshops will focus on personal skills, presentation skills, and gaining a broader understanding of the garden centre industry. A highlight of the programme is a project centered around environmental or sustainability themes, with the Dragons Den winners getting the chance to attend and present at our annual conference in January 2025. The programme will emphasise core gardening categories, including plants. The deadline for nominations is March 7th.

To request a nomination form, please email info@gca.org.uk. Once received, nominations will be reviewed by a panel of judges who will select the participants.

Being part of the Rising Stars programme is an exceptional opportunity. Nominees will enhance and hone their skills while being mentored by experts in the garden centre industry.  This unique coaching will benefit both the individuals and their garden centres, as the knowledge and skills gained will be brought back and implemented within their workplace.

The application form is here: Rising Stars 2025 Application