Originally set up in 1975 as the Geoffrey Chalk Memorial Fund in honour of one of the founder members of the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), the Charity now boasts:
- over 50 Champion supporters
- a healthy and growing role call of almost 70 Top Student Awards
- an average annual contribution of £40,000 towards work-ready practical training and enrichment for students at land-based training institutes
- and a 50 year-long history of blazing a trail for future influencers within the UK landscape industry.
What’s in a name?
A separate Charity entity but with close links to BALI in support of their GoLandscape initiatives, the Charity has kept “BALI” and “Chalk” in its name for familiarity, continuity and awareness. Its branding, website and promotional content has an alignment with BALI in its layout, colours and logo.
In essence, the BALI Chalk Fund is:
- BALI: Representing the UK landscape industry at government, regional and grass roots levels.
- CHALK: An honourable nod to Geoffrey Chalk, founding member of BALI and advocate of industry support for training and enrichment.
- FUND: A registered Charity, funded by donations and industry Champion sponsorship to invest in education, raising standards and the development of a highly skilled landscape workforce to sustain and promote the career pathway of Landscape across the UK – to EVERYONE.
Aligned, not confined
And whilst our Trustees and communications teams would always advocate joining BALI as a contractor, affiliate, training provider or designer for the benefits that membership of the industry’s trade association brings, it is NOT a pre-requisite for you to be a member to be able to pledge your support with us.
Who’s in?
To become a Champion, just choose your subscription for Gold, Silver or Bronze status. The funds raised are allocated to vocational and practical training courses that bridge the gap between college and the workplace. So if you or your organisation are looking to commit to improving skill levels, boosting career potential and encourage industry entrants – you’re the Champion for us.
To apply for training support for your college or learning provider, look out for the opening of the Enrichment Funding window at the beginning of the Autumn term. Funding can be provided – assessed and approved by the Board of Trustees – for any additional technical landscape skills outside of your academic qualification. The funding can cover training, assessment, registration and certification. Applications are encouraged from recognised land-based colleges and learning providers, though individual applications will also be considered.
To apply for a Student of the Year Award, you should be currently attending a land-based course of Level 2 or above in a Landscape, Horticulture, Groundworks or Garden Design discipline. Applications are encouraged from all such training providers, not just BALI Member Colleges.