John Nash
I think it is vital that students feel completely relaxed and at ease in any teaching session. I do like a two way discourse when demonstrating a particular technique to ensure that not only methods have been learnt but also reasons for the procedures are clear.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?I would wish that students go away from the course with the fundamental information to carry out the procedures discussed with confidence and understanding of the reasons for the process.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?Where possible I do like to get a hands on approach to teaching the more practical procedures. If this is not possible then I do like to use plenty of visual aids to illustrate the methods used. A good two way discourse across the room helps enormously to understand if the student has grasped the new ideas being shown.
What inspires your own work?A great love of growing. I'm forever thankful that I can honestly say that I have loved my life as a grower and I would have it no other way. Now I find the chance to teach others the rewards of growing well a great enjoyment.
Where did you gain your training?I have been a professional fruit grower for fifty years. I was an instructor with the Agricultural Training Boards as first Secretary and then Chairman of the West Sussex Fruit Group I helped the formation of the West Sussex Fruit Training Group. I have City and Guilds Certificates in Agricultural Machinery, Records and Accounts and Hort. Biology.
Is your work in any public or private collections?I have assisted in many private orchards and am at present working for the Crown Estates on the Potager attached to Fort Belveder in the grounds of Windsor Castle.
Have you written any books/had any articles published?I have tken part in the BBC farming programme on fruit harvesting diary and with ITV on Fruit Growing in Sussex.
Professional groups and societies:I am a member of The Institute of Horticulture.