Apprenticeship Program
The Fairview Gardens Apprenticeship program provides
a hands-on direct experience in organic farming, sustainable food systems, and agricultural education. Apprentices work as a close team to develop an introductory understanding of organic farming as well as an understanding of the broader food systems in which farming is embedded as they are mentored by farming, marketing, and educational staff.
Topics covered include propagation, irrigation, marketing, harvesting, management, plant ecology, soil systems, integrated pest management, food systems, and much more.
Past apprentices have gone on to excel in the agricultural, horticultural, culinary, non-profit, and academic sectors.
Duration
Our apprenticeship program begins each year in mid March and continues through October. Apprentices are expected to stay for a minimum of three months of the program to develop a more complete understanding of seasonal impacts on farming and to maintain a consistent team.
At a glance...
Apprentices work and learn Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. alongside our farming and marketing staff engaging in all activities essential to the operation of an organic farm. At this time, we do not offer housing; we do offer a small monthly
stipend through a grant received from the Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation.
How to Apply
To apply please send us the following information to programs@fairviewgardens.org
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A resume, complete with your current contact information and work references.
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A cover letter that addresses where you will live and availability.
- Personal Statement that answers the following questions:
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How did you learn about Fairview Gardens?
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There are a number of farms offering apprenticeships. Why Fairview Gardens?
- What skills, personal qualities, and experience would you like to acquire through our program?
- What skills, qualities, and experience do you have to share?
- What significant experiences have you had in the area of food and farming?
- Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
After receiving your application materials, we will contact you to set up a time to visit the farm for a morning of work. All prospective apprentices must visit the farm before acceptance into the program.
As a way of getting to know us better, we recommend the book, On Good Land: The Autobiography of an Urban Farm by Michael Ableman (Chronicle Books, 1998), and the documentary film about our work, Beyond Organic: The Vision of Fairview Gardens. These are available at many bookstores and libraries, and can also be ordered from us.
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