D2.1 CSA Train the Trainers module outline plus supporting materials

The ClimateSmartAdvisors project aims to empower agricultural advisors to support farmers in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation actions across Europe. The project focuses on boosting the role of agricultural advisors by providing targeted training on climate-smart farming (CSF) practices and facilitating knowledge sharing among advisors. The main vehicle for strengthening advisor capacity are the Communities of Practice (CoP’s), comprising a Climate Smart Coach (CSC) and five Climate Smart Advisors (CSA’s). The “Train the Trainers” (TTT) programme, designed in collaboration with project partners, aims to build the competence and confidence of the CSC’s to lead CoP’s and facilitate knowledge exchange. The training content is designed based on the results of a Training Needs Analysis conducted among Climate Smart Coaches (CSC’s). Survey results highlighted the balanced demographic composition of the CSC’s, encompassing various levels of expertise and a significant proportion lacking experience in greenhouse gas measurement and climate change vulnerability assessment. Moreover, while familiar with Climate Smart Farming (CSF) concepts, CSC’s expressed a need for practical advisory skills, especially in engaging farmers and overcoming resistance to change. Priority thematic areas identified include soil and health biodiversity, crop management, grassland production, and rewarding mechanisms. Based on the survey findings, the TTT programme consists of virtual and in-person sessions covering topics such as soft skills development, establishing and managing CoP’s, climate-smart advisory approaches, and planning and monitoring CoP activities. The programme also encompasses a specific thematic session addressing rewarding mechanisms. Overall, the TTT programme represents a collective effort, integrating inputs and expertise from various project stakeholders and work packages, making the TTT inclusive and comprehensive. By equipping advisors with the necessary knowledge and skills, the project strives to create a network of empowered CSC’s capable of driving the adoption of climate-smart farming practices within the European Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS).