Derby College Group brings together students and employers to strengthen the land-based sector

Credit: DCG

Derby College Group (DCG) has reinforced its commitment to the land-based sector this month, hosting a successful Higher Education Insights event at its Broomfield Hall campus and announcing an upcoming Employer Drop-in Session designed to help local businesses unlock the power of apprenticeships.

Students explore their future at Land-Based HE Insights Event
For the second consecutive year, Broomfield Hall was alive with ambition as DCG welcomed Level 3 Animal Care and Equine students to its Land-Based Higher Education Insights event. The occasion brought together a range of universities and institutions for a dedicated careers fair, with expert guidance also on offer around UCAS applications and personal statement writing.

A highlight of the day was an inspiring session led by the programme lead for the MSc Conservation Biology course, helping students to connect their passion for the natural world with tangible career and study pathways. The event also shone a spotlight on the Higher Education courses available directly at Derby College Group, offering students a compelling, cost-effective local route into degree-level study, with smaller class sizes, strong industry links, and clear progression routes into employment or further study, including pathways delivered in partnership with the University of Derby.

Jon Collins, Vice Principal, Land Based, Derby College Group said: “The land-based sector is one of the most rewarding and varied industries a young person can enter, and events like this are about opening eyes to what is genuinely possible.

“Whether a student goes on to study conservation biology, pursue a career in equine management, or work in animal welfare, we want them to leave Broomfield Hall knowing that Derby College Group is with them every step of the way. We are proud to be building a real pipeline of talent for this sector, and equally proud of the inspiring futures our students are carving out.”

Local employers invited to shape the sector’s future
Building on this momentum, Derby College Group is calling on land-based employers across the region to get involved. A free, no-pressure Employer Drop-in Session is taking place at Broomfield Hall on Thursday 12th June 2026, running from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. No booking is required; employers are simply invited to come along, enjoy a coffee and a conversation, and explore how apprenticeships could work for their business.

DCG offers a comprehensive range of land-based apprenticeships, including:

• Level 2 & 3 Horticulture
• Level 2 Golf Greenkeeping
• Level 2 Arborist
• Level 2 & 3 Animal Care
• Level 2 & 3 Agriculture
• Level 2 Dog Grooming
• Level 2 Floristry

Whether employers manage a farm, estate, kennels, veterinary practice, green space, dog groomers or florist, DCG’s apprenticeships are designed to develop motivated, job-ready staff with industry-relevant skills. The session is open to businesses hiring an apprentice for the first time and to those simply curious about what apprenticeships could offer.

Event details
Location: Broomfield Hall, Morley, DE7 6DN
Date: Thursday 12th June 2026
Time: 8:30am – 12:30pm (no booking required)