If you are intent on developing or growing your farm or forestry business, investing time in your own continuous professional development (CPD), or that of your family or workers is essential. Not planning ahead for both personal and business objectives could have limiting or even damaging repercussions on your future business prospects.
Kevin Thomas is chief executive of Lantra Wales, which provides the skills development and lifelong learning element of the new Farming Connect programme, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and Welsh Government.
According to Mr. Thomas, Farming Connect’s new online Personal Development Plan (PDP) service could be one of the most important stepping stones to help you achieve not only your personal goals but in turn ensure that you have the skills and knowledge you need to help achieve your business objectives too.
“This new PDP service is accessible to anyone registered with the new Farming Connect programme, it’s fully funded and it could transform the way in which you work and run your business,” says Mr. Thomas.
“Almost every profession and sector now insists on their members or staff being part of a continuous professional development (CPD) scheme, because doing what you’ve always done is never going to be the best way forward in an ever-more challenging and competitive market place - a concept many of our more progressive businesses have already caught on to,” said Mr. Thomas.
Farming Connect’s new Personal Development Plan (PDP) service will enable you to consider where you are now and where you want to be in one, five or even ten years time.
“By completing a simple online PDP form, you’ll be encouraged to consider your own personal skill set, you’ll identify your strengths and any weaknesses and by setting objectives, you’ll soon gain a clear sense of focus and direction too.”
The service is also available to family members working within the business and PAYE employees.
“You’ll be encouraged to set out an action plan and timetable for acquiring any new skills or knowledge which could help you transform the way in which you work or run your business and which will help you capitalise on any future business opportunities.
The new Farming Connect programme provides a wealth of skills, training and mentoring opportunities ranging from fully funded e.learning packages which can be accessed from the convenience of the home or office, to training courses on both business and technical topics, with registered businesses able to apply for 80% funding towards the cost.
In addition to drop-in PDP surgeries available throughout Wales during April, Farming Connect will continue to provide ongoing support to assist farmers to complete their online PDPs. For further information, visit the PDP page or contact your local Farming Connect Development Officer.