GCA adds cyber security course to GROW platform

The Garden Centre Association (GCA) has launched a new cyber security course on its GROW e‑learning platform.  It is the 99th course to be added to the online training portfolio.

The course is available to both GCA members and those within the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) and aims to raise awareness of cyber risks facing garden centres and their staff. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches report, 43% of UK businesses experienced a cyber attack in 2025.

GROW instructional designer Antony Snow said the course has been developed to highlight common methods used by cyber criminals, outline risks to individuals and organisations, and provide practical guidance to help improve online security.

The GROW platform currently supports more than 12,000 users nationwide and offers training tailored to the garden centre industry. It operates on a self‑funding, non‑profit basis, with any surplus reinvested into further development.

GCA chief executive Peter Burks said the new course reflects the growing importance of cyber awareness and the role individuals play in keeping business data secure.

Further information is available via the GCA website.