What is TIAH?

Our main goal is to help people develop, and their businesses succeed, allowing the industry to thrive.  

For those who own or work in an agriculture or horticulture business, we aim to provide tailored advice and practical tools needed to help develop skills and lifelong learning. 

For those who want to work in farming and growing, we'll be the gateway to all the advice, support, and training you'll need to pursue a rewarding career.  

To find out more about us, read the five-year strategy.

The history of TIAH 

TIAH has been established as a charity. Recognising the work that had already been done in the sector by Agskills Limited in July 2021, we were pleased to take over its charitable objects and the existing legal entity to form the new institute. 

2018: Swadling report recommended that industry leaders should come together to lead on skills  

2020: Agri-Hort Skills Leadership Group (SLG) discussed the idea of a professional body for agriculture and horticulture  

2021: The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture became an official, independent organisation on 1 July 2021, following confirmation of support from Defra in the Agricultural Transition Plan.   

2022: Development of the online service and the launch of ‘TIAH Cultivator’ pilot scheme with farmers and growers  

Why is TIAH needed?

Agriculture and horticulture is undergoing significant changes. 

For agricultural and horticultural businesses to stay profitable, sustainable, and contribute positively to the environment, it's vital that individuals confirm and enhance their existing skills and acquire new ones. 

However, the way the industry approaches skills and training is fragmented, so we need some serious change. That’s why we’re bringing skills and training together, making career development simpler and more accessible. 

What services will TIAH provide?

We'll have a variety of services available. These will include: 

• Support – a central hub that will bring together existing and new training opportunities from across the industry. It will direct users to relevant training courses and information based on their career goals. Our site will also allow employers and employees to track training and achievements. In addition to proving compliance, this also simplifies audits and record keeping. 

• Signposting – We'll act as a coordinator, sharing new and innovative farming practices and policy updates with the industry.  

• Labour market information – We will collect reliable data on the labour market, workforce needs, and skills gaps from market research.  

• Careers information – Our careers hub will provide information on dozens of careers, the skills needed for each job, and opportunities to help people advance their careers.   

• Professional framework -A competency framework will be available to help individuals identify the skills needed. This will also allow employers to be more involved in the training process.