Celebrating AJ’s Journey: A Successful Work Placement at The Grower

Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege of working with AJ, a young man who joined us through a supported employment placement in partnership with United Response. As Chris attends his work placement graduation it offers a moment to reflect on his incredible journey and celebrate the achievements he’s made along the way.

AJ and Gareth at the Penventon Park Hotel for AJs work placement graduation. AJ with his certificate

AJ came to The Grower with a love of tractors (we don’t blame him!)  and a desire to build on his skills with the aim to one day drive tractors for a living. From day one, he’s been tasked with an array of work from The Grower and on the farm. Whether he was tree planting, weeding, grading, or learning the ropes of tractor driving.  Many of the tasks were completely new to AJ, each one helping him step outside his comfort zone and grow in confidence.

His contribution didn’t stop at the fields, either. AJ became a valuable part of our team caring for the pigs; mucking out, feeding, and helping to maintain high standards of welfare. Through all of this, it’s been inspiring to watch him grow in confidence, skill, and independence. He’s become more self-assured and capable. Even to watch his sense of humour be expressed as he’s grown in confidence including debates over the best tractor brand with AJ’s firm favourite Fendt always having a key mention.

[Photo of Fendt Green and Black Combine Harvester]

A key part of AJ’s success has been the support from Gareth, whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental not just for AJ, but for our team as well. Starting a supported placement is a learning curve for everyone involved, and Gareth’s insight helped us create an environment where AJ could thrive.

We’re incredibly proud to be part of the United Response Supported Employment Scheme, which provides tailored support to help people with disabilities and autism prepare for, gain, and sustain employment. This programme makes a real difference—not just in the lives of the individuals involved, but also for workplaces like ours that benefit from their contributions and perspectives.

Watching AJ’s journey has been a reminder of the value of inclusive employment and the potential that shines when the right support is in place. We’re excited to see where AJ’s path leads next and have no doubt he will continue to grow and achieve great things.

AJ with supervised driving of the tractor.

From all of us at The Grower—thank you, AJ. It’s been a joy having you on the team.

Links:

Supported employment - United Response

www.thegrower.co.uk