A milestone reached – 50 Residential Rural Weeks!
October 06, 2025
All at HighGround are delighted and so proud that we have delivered 50 residential rural weeks. From tentative beginnings at Plumpton College before moving to a firmly established relationship with Bicton College, we have welcomed almost 500 beneficiaries – those in resettlement, veterans and reservists – to explore the range of potential career options the land-based economy has to offer. The relationships built with land-based colleges, employers and many working within the various sectors have been essential to the success of the programme and we are deeply indebted to all those who contribute time and knowledge with such generosity and passion – without you, we are nothing.
Perhaps fittingly, this week kicked off in a new base room at the college, where course manager – Chris and welfare officer – Pete were joined by Chair of Trustees – Simon, CEO – Jamie and Ops Manager – Heather to welcome 9 beneficiaries. 1 Army, 3 Royal Navy and 5 Royal Marines. As expected the banter the started straight away and the group settled in for introductions and an outline of the week.
Each day on the residential consists of visits to a variety of locations, each one a different sector within the land-based economy and allows the group to gain a first hand understanding of the realities of the work, opportunities available, what is needed and most importantly, what is not needed in order to transition into that area. The chance to ask questions (the good, bad and ugly) and get honest answers is hugely valuable and helps dispel myths, build connections and start the process of understanding what feels right for each individual.
Being outdoors is of course an essential part of the week, no matter the weather and this hands-on approach is one we know works and is appreciated by those attending. The chance to gather real life contacts who will continue to offer deeper insights after the course is another important factor and one HighGround greatly appreciates from all those who support us.
This week, the group explored the following sectors:
Agri-Tech – with Ed Parrish of Bicton College
Agriculture – Kevin Bond of Home Farm, Bicton College
Woodland Management – with John Herbert of Clinton Devon Estates
Aboriculture – with Kirsty and Matt of Hi-Line Tree Services
Exeter Racecourse – Jason Loosemore (Clerk of the Course) Exeter Racecourse
Wildlife Conservation – with Toby Taylor from RSPB Aylesbeare Common
Forestry – with Josh Stephen of Haldon Forest Park
Landscaping – with Tony and Ollie from Tony Benger Landscaping
Heritage Gardening – with Karl Emaleus, Head Gardener at Killerton House
Greenkeeping – with Terry Farkins and Andy George from Woodbury Park Golf Club
Commercial vegetable growing – with Rodney Hall of Roddy Hall Organics
Forest School – Nick Murphy of The Outdoors Group
Wildlife Ranger – Tom Garner of Clinton Devon Estates
Self employment Jamie Ranson (tree surgeon and hedge layer) Langore Tree Services
Smallholding – Debbie Kingsley South Yeo Farm West
Gin distilling and rare breeds – Mark and Dawn Rees Gotland Gin
Rural Estate Management – Ian Bowler of Bowler Oakfield Chartered Surveyors
The week ends with round-up sessions in which we explain the next steps in support from HighGround and pass on details of other organisations who can provide in areas such as CV writing, putting military experience into civilian language and also to remind them of the importance of maintaining support networks. Once part of the HighGround family, beneficiaries have our support for as long as they need it. We love hearing good news stories and indeed, several presenters have previously attended HighGround courses.
Here’s to the next 50!
Pictures from the week can be seen here
We are indebted to funders this week – Greenwich Hospital, Army Central Fund, and Veterans Foundation – their generous support makes these weeks possible.
SHARE THIS POST 