STUDENT FARMER - SEPTEMBER 2023

S&YF AMBASSADOR TAKEOVER EDITION

The magazine for young farmers

September 2023

PLUS…

KALEB COOPER

We catch up before he goes on tour

MENTAL HEALTH

Tips to help yourself and those around you

From ambassador to farm manager Cameron Knee's journey to his dream job

FROM THE GROUND UP

Advice on starting your farm business 2154021.indd 1

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Contents

04 PUBLISHED BY:

EDITOR:

Beth Wright beth.wright@nfu.org.uk

Beth Wright, Alexander Payne, Caitlin Gallagher, Darcy Johnson, Hannah Cuthbert, Louise Penn, Rhea Auton, Emily Marshall, Liz Tree, Tom McVeigh, Charlie CooperHarding, Evie Rogers, Hamish Evans, and Amanda Watson

DESIGNED BY:

John Cottle

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH GOATS

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BACK BRITISH FARMING DAY

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NFU, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ

WORDS BY:

04

10

28

COVER IMAGE BY:

John Cottle

TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT:

Alan Brown alan.brown@nfu.org.uk

COMING FULL CIRCLE

Ambassadors’ summer trip to The Newt

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REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

17

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

21

MUSINGS FROM ACROSS THE POND

24

SPOTLIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH

28

BUILDING FROM THE GROUND UP

30

GUIDE TO THE SUPPLY CHAIN

31

TALKING WITH THE TOP

33

LOBBYING 101

34

ALL THINGS DAIRY

37

IN HIS OWN WORDS

38

S&YF RECRUITMENT

42

FROM CHIPPING NORTON TO THE WORLD Meet Kaleb Cooper

How times flies

Read all past editions of Student Farmer at: issuu.com/studentfarmer

FOLLOW US: /StudentFarmer @studentfarmer @studentfarmer

Well, I made it to my second edition of Student Farmer. I can’t quite believe it’s been almost four months since the last time I wrote an Ed’s letter.

As they say, time really does fly when you're having fun. I’ve got my first harvest under my belt and as a new term gets underway for a lot of you, my second year at the NFU begins.

I’ve had some amazing help getting this Takeover edition of the magazine ready for you. Our NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors have each written an article on a topic of their choice - be it an experience they’ve had or an area they’re passionate about - and we’ve had some great stories from across England and Wales.

Check out page 28 for tips on starting a farming business, and 21 for what one ambassador learnt from a trip to a cattle ranch in Canada. Elsewhere, there’s an interview with NFU President Minette Batters, we put mental health in the spotlight, and we catch up with Kaleb Cooper of Clarkson’s Farm fame. We also share the details of the ambassador's summer trip to The Newt in Somerset where we were hosted by farm manager Cameron Knee from the 2019/20 ambassador cohort.

If, as you read these articles, you think ‘I could do that’ or if you’re keen to learn more about the Student & Young Farmer Ambassador programme, have a look at page 38 - we’re currently recruiting for our next batch of ambassadors. Who knows, it could be your story I’m reading next time around!

Beth Wright, Editor

WINNER WINNER! Student Farmer magazine was named Membership Publication of the Year at the 2022 PPA Independent Publisher Awards.

The May 2022 edition also received a Special Mention in the Cover of the Year category.

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13/09/2023 11:48:00

Goats

Getting to grips with goats Beth Wright chats to three young farmers at different stages of their journeys in the rapidly expanding goat market John Cottle

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A

nja Hollingworth is cutting her teeth in farming with a herd of Boer goats. The 23-year-old started her herd two years ago after being gifted two Boers as a present by her farmer partner, Daniel Hollis.

“In 2021 he gifted me with two goats for our anniversary and now we have 31 Pedigree Boer goats. I have no idea how I got through life before being introduced to farming. It’s amazing.”

The pair currently sell for breeding but hope to one day have a business that does a roaring trade in meat and dairy.

“We’ve not had the opportunity to sell for meat yet; we had quite a bad kidding last year,” Anja explains. “We kept all the girls to build the herd and the boys all went off for breeders. I’ve since had two messages back from clients saying they’ve created their own herds which is great.”

Daniel adds: “For the time being, it’s just breeding and focusing on getting our herd up to the numbers we want. To be successful in meat you need at least 50 nannies and then the kids – and each breeding season is different.”

In addition to getting in the goat meat business, the couple, who keep their goats on roughly ten acres across Burton-uponTrent, have also set their sights on a dairy enterprise in the future.

“It would be nice to start a milking herd and move into related products such as soap, hand cream and lip balm, in addition to the usual milk and cheese,” Anja says.

“That’s the end goal.”

Learning together

While Daniel is from a farming family and has been working with sheep and cows his

Goats whole life, Anja is new to the industry.

“It was a perfect opportunity for me to get involved in the farming world and for us to learn how to look after them together,” she says. “It’s certainly been a challenge but a really good one.”

Interestingly, Anja’s main takeaway is that while you’d be forgiven for thinking goats would be like sheep, they’re actually more like a “mini cow”.

“A goat has four stomachs like a cow,” she explains. “So, they must be fed in a similar way to a cow and their vet treatments also have similarities.

“They’re also a lot more complex than sheep which can weather as they have wool. We always have to have a form of shelter for the goats, a lot of ours are handmade, but as long as they can get out of the wind and rain, they’re happy.

“They also love their grass. Lots of people winter their goats indoors but I think weathering them makes them hardier. We do have a lot of feet problems that we have to keep on top of, but I think it’s better for them to be out on the grass and getting the nutrients out of that as opposed to keeping drenching them. They love being out.”

Goat fever?

While Daniel is on board with the new goat venture, he says it’s not for the fainthearted.

“They’re a very tricky species,” he says, pointing to issues around medicine as the main challenge. “You can’t just go down to your local supplier and ask for a wormer as there aren’t many for goats, you have to get a prescription from your vet which can be expensive.”

Anja adds: “They’re a lot harder work

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Goats than sheep. For example, they require a lot more attention when they’re younger, they don’t grow as quickly as a lamb would and they’re also a lot smaller, so they need that bit of extra care in the first few days. They also need heat lamps no matter the time of the year as they obviously don’t have that protective wool like a lamb does.”

But the couple agree it’s worth the effort, with Daniel noting: “The goats are hard work, every day is a learning curve but it’s rewarding, especially when they start kidding and you can see what you’ve achieved.”

They’re also a fun animal to be around, Anja says, adding: “They’re very cheeky and quite the daredevils, they love climbing on things and keeping me on my toes. Every day is different, for sure. I love seeing their faces every day. It’s a joy.”

For anyone thinking about getting into the goat game, Anja and Daniel say be sure to know what to expect: “Make sure you have lots of time and patience as they need a lot of attention, and perseverance – that’s a big one!”

Follow @boerbreeder21 to keep up to date with Anja’s journey

Ready, steady, goat Meanwhile, six years into his journey as a goat farmer, NFU Next Generation Forum Vice-chair Chris Dickinson is preparing to launch a range of ready meals made with goat meat.

“People are very keen to try goat meat but often ask me what they should do with it, so by creating these ready meals we’re removing that problem and making goat meat openly available,” Chris explains.

“One big thing about selling your own meat is carcass utilisation. It’s very easy to sell certain cuts but it’s what you do with the rest of it. The idea with these ready meals is that they use a combination of diced and mixed, so we utilise the whole animal.”

Gastro Goat ready meals will launch later this year with meals including Jamaican goat curry, goat chilli mac & cheese, Indian shepherd’s pie, and a hotpot which utilises a local beer that Chris’s barley goes into.

Chris, who comes from a mixed family farm in Cumbria and continues to play an active role in the business, which includes wagyu beef, sheep, arable and egg laying enterprises, says there have always been goats on the farm.

“My mom bought a heard of Golden Guernsey’s about 25 years ago and I’ve always liked goats, they’ve got a bit more

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personality than sheep,” he says. He explains that after a colleague at the NFU (Chris served as policy advisor in both poultry and the regions for six years) had a herd of Boers, his interest was piqued.

“As a stockperson, I liked the look of them and when you’re around entrepreneurial people every day like that, it gives you inspiration.”

He went on to buy about 120 Boer goats in one go: “It was like jumping into the deep end because while we’re used to having stock, goats bring a completely different set of problems.

“Lots of people try to treat them like sheep but they actually have a completely different list of potential obstacles.

They’ve very prone to worms, Pasteurella - diseases which don’t affect sheep as much. You just have to learn and plan through experience.”

Today, Chris has about 300 goats and runs an innovative goat meat business supplying high end retailers and restaurants across the UK. For any young farmers thinking about joining him in the goat game, he says: “Be willing to go out there and find the market because it’s not always going to come directly to you.

“And don’t be afraid of things going wrong because they probably will, but there are definitely opportunities out there.

For the market to thrive, it needs young passionate people to come in and make it commercial and help it to grow. Just make sure that you’re up for the challenge!”

Follow Chris on X (Twitter): cgdickinson and Instagram: building_our_cumbrian_farm

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Goats

Goats’ milk strawberry milkshake

Anja shares her favourite recipe for what to do with goats’ milk — a perfect way to start or end your day Ingredients: • 150g strawberries • 350ml semi-skimmed goats’ milk or 300ml full fat goats’ milk • 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream • 3 teaspoons of strawberry milkshake powder

Photo: istock

Recipe 1. Make sure all the strawberries are hulled out, with the leaves taken off and chopped in half 2. A dd the strawberries to the blender and blend to your satisfaction 3. A dd the milk and the strawberry milkshake powder, and blend together 4. Add the ice cream and blend one last time

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13/09/2023 12:04:04

Back British Farming Day

Back British Farming Day As we went to press, the NFU had just held its Back British Farming Day – a celebration to highlight the importance of farming to politicians and the wider public

T

AS WE WENT TO PRESS...

The government has backed calls for industry-led action to signpost customers to ‘buy British’ when they shop online. It also said the first Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) payments will be made this year, announced a £4 million Small Abattoir Fund, launched a recruitment drive to appoint five extra agri-food attaches, and announced £30m for farmers to invest in automated, robotic and solar technologies.

The NFU is assessing the detail and will respond in due course.

Go to nfuonline.com/backbritishfarming to read more.

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Photo: Miranda Parry Photography

he NFU took farming to Westminster on 13 September, highlighting public support for the sector and the role Britain’s farmers and growers play in feeding the nation and caring for the great British countryside.

The eighth annual Back British Farming Day celebrated the appreciation of a job ranked by the British public as one of the most important and well-respected S&YF Ambassadors at Back professions, with farmers ranking second British Farming Day only to nursing, according to a NFU survey.

NFU President Minette Batters said: “Britain’s farmers and growers are truly inspirational, and it is heart-warming to know the public really value the work we do in producing fantastic homegrown food.”

The celebrations started in Westminster with a breakfast reception at the House of Commons, with MPs invited to come and show their support for UK farming and grab a wheatsheaf badge, now an emblem of the day, to wear during Prime Minister’s Questions.

Siobhan Baillie MP, who sponsored the event in the Terrace Pavilion in the Houses of Parliament, gave a speech alongside Minette and Defra Secretary Térèse Coffey.

Our S&YF Ambassadors were also in attendance, with Liz Tree noting: “I had a brilliant morning chatting with MPs. A particular highlight was having the chance to talk to Steve Reed about his vision for all things agriculture, bonding over the fact that he is the MP for Croydon, my home town, and how farming is relevant in an urban context. It’s great to have the chance to spend time in Westminster with amazing British farmers and supportive politicians.”

Minette added: “We really have some of the most forward-thinking, productive and innovative farmers and growers working across our sector.

Despite the challenges being faced by everyone this year, we are still doing what we do best – producing great tasting British food. On this Back British Farming Day, we appreciate this public support more than ever and want to say a massive thank you to everyone.”

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The Newt

COVER STORY

Coming full circle The Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors underwent the full farm to fork experience at The Newt in Somerset

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The Newt

I

t was a full circle moment this summer, as Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Cameron Knee from the 2019/20 cohort welcomed six of the current ambassadors to The Newt in Somerset, where he works as farm manager.

Cameron, who is originally from Somerset, studied Agriculture and Business Management at Newcastle University and returned home to his old stomping grounds in November last year to take up the reins at The Newt. A country house hotel and garden attraction, The Newt boasts an on-site orchard, cider press and cellar and, thankfully for Cameron, also has its own working farm – home to the largest herd of British Whites in the world.

The Newt, which also counts some 500 sheep, mostly Dorset Downs with some Bleu Du Maine, and 120 deer in residence, grows more than 350 varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs to supply its on-site restaurants, hotels and farm shop. The produce is also sold to the London market through its online shop.

As farm manager, Cameron is responsible for a team of five and is currently involved in a project to build a new farmyard – which will include four new roundhouses – and “transform the efficiency of our beef herd, add grain stores for the arable operation and a rotary milking parlour for a new water buffalo herd”.

Learning curve

Cameron, who is not from a farming background, said his interest in agriculture started in his teens.

“I’ve always loved being outside, whether it be shooting and fishing, and started working on farms at a young age.”

After focusing predominately on dairy and livestock while studying at uni, Cameron did a harvest on a farm in Cambridge and discovered that he “absolutely loved arable”.

“I’m taking inspiration from all areas of the farm and want to duplicate it on a much smaller scale on mine” Tom McVeigh Student & Young Farmer Ambassador

Post graduation, he secured a job as a farm consultant for Strutt & Parker in Northumberland, during which time he sat and passed his agronomy exams before moving on to Chichester, West Sussex, to work for Barfoot Farms, a sister company of Barfoots of Botley, as a farm manager.

While he loved getting his boots muddy again, Cameron was keen to move back

“It was fab to see a farm take a much more regenerative approach and to see it in action on such a large scale. I particularly love the fact that it’s not just a farm trying to do things regeneratively, they’re trying to educate visitors on what they’re doing and why in a move that will, hopefully, help to teach future generations how their food is produced.”

Darcy Johnson Student and Young Farmer Ambassador

down South, but was struggling to find the right move.

“I wanted to come back to Somerset, but the right farm wasn’t coming up and I didn’t have enough livestock experience,” he said. “I got a job as a farm manager up in Aberdeenshire on a family-owned 4,000-acre farm with about 2,000 cows, 4,000 sheep and 1,000 acres of arable.

“It was a tough learning curve, but I learned the most I think I ever have during those 18 months and the job proved to be a real stepping stone and opened the door to where I am today.”

After being approached on LinkedIn by a recruiter, Cameron was able to meet with his future boss at The Newt for a job interview in a move he describes as “the stars aligning”.

“Fate took over. It was the only day my would-be boss could meet for an interview, and I just happened to have flown down that same week for a wedding.

It was like it was meant to be.”

Hosting the ambassadors just eight months on, and with his muddy boots firmly under his new kitchen table, Cameron hasn’t looked back. But while he says managing the farm at The Newt is his dream job, it’s taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get to this point.

“I had a goal that by the age of 30 I wanted to be in a role where I would happily stay there for the next 20 or 30 years. I’ve chosen to move around a lot and put my personal life aside but now I’m hopefully at a point where I can focus on that.”

Now aged 30, Cameron noted that the key to his success was not resting on his laurels and working “bloody hard” after graduating.

He added that not having a family involved in the industry has been tough at times: “My parents are great, I’ll speak to them every day on the phone but some of September 2023

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The Newt “Being at The Newt just gives you a lot of ideas. There are not many businesses you can go to where you can see the full farm to fork process and all of the little added details like the cider and wine. It suits the hotel, and it suits the general public. It's just those little added extras that you don’t see in other businesses or think of when you’re looking at a plan to do yourself.”

Amanda Watson Student & Young Farmer Ambassador

the things I talk about, they just don’t understand because they don’t understand farming. There have been instances, for example, when they just can’t comprehend the true scope of what a particular issue would cause me later in the cropping year.

“It’s tough but not having that ‘farming family’ to fall back on has, at the same time, galvanised me not to fall back on my laurels,” he added.

Paying it back

After welcoming the group to The Newt, Cameron took the Ambassadors on a tractor trailer ride around the estate, learning about the Somerset landscape and Cameron’s plans for the farm’s future.

He explained the full farm to fork experience, with the ambassadors seeing for themselves the estate’s herd of deer, consisting of 60 Fallow and 60 Red Deer, sheep and, of course, the British Whites, before stopping by the new timber roundhouse to learn about what’s in store at the new farmyard.

“It will revolutionise the farming operation on the estate, cutting down on ‘Tarmac farming’ by centralising all operations, optimising efficiency and placing animal welfare at the forefront of everything,” Cameron said of the new venture.

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The group then dropped in at The Newt’s new state-of-the-art butchery which has four rooms displaying different stages of charcuterie meats, and a Himalayan salt drying room, before driving through the orchards and meeting Cellar Master Greg Carnell. Greg talked the ambassadors through the process for cider making and treated them to a glass of some of the best ones. The Newt grows 70 varieties of bittersweet and Somerset apples.

Field to fork

“I thought the next generation visit was a huge success, it was great to be able to share what we are doing at The Newt with the ambassadors, showing a different style of farming to a lot of people’s conventional roots. To be able to explain the process of field to fork all on one estate was a real privilege which seemed well received with so many engaging questions coming from the group,” Cameron said.

“I thoroughly enjoyed being able to share my story of the past ten years of my farming adventure and how I have gone from strength to strength as a farm manager, including my experiences as an S&YF Ambassador and all the doors the programme has opened for me along the way.”

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12/09/2023 16:15:09

Regenerative Agriculture

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

The future of farming?

Ambassador Tom McVeigh explores the world of regenerative agriculture and what it means for the future of farming

S

ince I moved back to my family farm two years ago, I’ve been muddling through books and muddling through fields trying to get a grip on regenerative agriculture. What is it? How does it work?

Does it work? Finally, I feel I’m beginning to cultivate an understanding of farming’s new hot topic and I thought I should share what I’ve learned so far.

Regenerative agriculture is a system based on five key principles. Minimising soil disturbance, broadening crop rotations, integrating livestock, increasing biodiversity and using cover crops. Gurus of the movement will remind you that all five of these principles are of equal importance and that missing a step will dramatically reduce the success of the outcome. If this sounds slightly dogmatic, it’s probably because it is – this is one of the main arguments that’s putting farmers off joining the movement.

What pulled me towards changing our farming system wasn’t the burning desire to improve the environment but the burning desire to improve the bottom line.

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It’s incidental that this system promises to do both. My farm is predominantly an arable enterprise. We grow for commodity markets so, by definition, our aim is to find the optimal point between producing the highest yield while producing it for the lowest cost and at the lowest risk.

I feel in the short time that I’ve been farming, those parameters have dramatically shifted. Input costs are through the roof and selling prices all over the place. It seems natural that I need to reduce my costs and risk because I can’t control the end sale price. Regenerative agriculture helps me quantify my goals.

My view is that carbon is cost. Carbon is labour, it’s fuel, it’s fertilisers and it’s sprays.

If following these principles can reduce all of those without dramatically affecting my yields, it’s probably worth a try.

So now that we’ve ascertained that regenerative farming is the answer to all of our problems (maybe it can cure my dyslexia?); how can we successfully implement it? Ah. Not so easy. I’m two years in and I’ve hardly started. I’ve learned that changing a farm business

requires a vast amount of organisation and careful planning – I have little experience with either.

I still believe in Ambassador taking this route, Tom McVeigh though, because I believe in the logic. If you reduce your cultivations, you need cover crop roots to do them for you. To utilise cover crops you need a broad crop rotation, and a broad rotation will in turn reduce the weed burden you’ve created by reducing cultivations. It does make sense. Add in organic manures and the process is accelerated – but still don’t expect to see many results within the first five years. These years are referred to as ‘the transition’. I feel like I might be transitioning forever.

I also think that as a generation, what we lack in experience we make up for with enthusiasm. I was lucky enough to

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Regenerative Agriculture

SPOTLIGHT ON FARMING FUTURE

discuss this topic on the NFU Live panel at this year’s Cereals event with my fellow ambassadors Mike Wilkins and Emily Marshall, and Will Oliver, NFU Combinable Crops Board appointee, who farms over 2,000 acres in Leicestershire. I left feeling inspired and motivated because some of my peers are already making great successes in taking these steps. We spoke for an about an hour and covered a huge amount of ground, while NFU Vice-president David Exwood steered the discussion onto all of the poignant challenges facing farming today. It feels to me that in the face of the vast amounts of change within agriculture – from policy, to climate, to technological advancements and price volatility – that the risk really isn’t in changing, but the risk is in not changing.

Whether we believe that regenerative agriculture is the solution for farming’s future is up for debate. However, I think it’s becoming clearer and clearer that the conventional alternative offers little in terms of solutions, excitement or stimulation for the next generation of farmers.

The panel at Cereals was the first NFU Live roadshow session, with the ambassadors and Will Oliver debating the question: More for less – can the next generation deliver?

“The key to the future of farming is going to be delivering more from less, delivering for the environment and delivering food production, getting that balance right between the two,” said NFU Vice-president David Exwood as he opened the debate.

Tom spoke as a participant in the SFI pilot, describing it as a “vehicle” through which he hopes to “create a farming system that’s more sustainable”.

Will Oliver added that utilising manure such as digestates and poultry manure has “completely revolutionised the way we farm”. When asked about the term ‘regenerative farming’, Will said he preferred to use the word “efficient”.

Meanwhile, mixed farm manager Mike said he does not see himself as regenerative because, “when we have no metric to prove that we are regenerative, it dilutes the whole concept completely”.

Emily, who works as an agricultural supply chain Manager for Cranswick, highlighted that, regardless of the terminology, “we have to ensure we’re taking everyone on that journey with us and ensure retailers at the top of the supply chain are messaging our products appropriately”.

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13/09/2023 13:21:02

Education

Ambassador Liz Tree caught up with Stevie Edge-McKee, Farm School Manager at Farms for City Children, on the importance of educating children about farming

F

arms for City Children (FFCC) was founded in 1976

by Sir Michael and Lady Clare Morpurgo to enable children from disadvantaged Ambassador communities to Liz Tree experience the adventure of working together on farms in the British countryside. The charity has since welcomed more than 100,000 children from inner cities to its three farms in Devon, Pembrokeshire and Gloucestershire.

Throughout the past year I’ve been working with FFCC as part of my postgraduate research. I come from an urban background, growing up in Croydon, South London, with my experiences on farms as a teenager sparking my passion for agriculture and farming. Therefore, working with FFCC felt like a natural choice to help foster the next generations of farmers through encouraging anyone, regardless of their background, to learn about and enjoy agriculture and food production.

I caught up with Stevie who, as Farm

School Manager at Wick Court, looks after the site and deals with educational programming, administration, finance and human resources, alongside meeting with funders and partners. She maintains her connection with the children by leading on-farm sessions.

Stevie’s background is not in farming, but environmental education. She grew up in West Yorkshire in an urban area but has a love of the environment due to her family’s connection to growing and birdwatching.

“It can be easy to forget how different landscapes can look. Many children may not have gardens or even balconies,” Stevie added.

“We need to make sure what we present has relevance to children. We’ve had plenty of children who don’t know what a nettle is, and then we ask them to avoid them. We must remember not to assume prior experience or knowledge.”

Life-changing experience

For many children, visiting a FFCC farm is a life-changing experience, granting access to a world of new sights, smells and activities to which they would not usually be exposed. There are so many benefits of spending time on the farm, Stevie explained.

“For some children, it might be moving a wheelbarrow, being close to the animals, and having an understanding of the natural world.

For others, it might be learning to wash and dress themselves or eating new foods.”

While the benefits may not be immediately quantifiable, even the opportunity to experience the rural, ‘natural’ world can present a radical and somewhat surprising departure from everyday city life.

Farm School Manager Stevie Edge-McKee. Photo credit: Farms for City Children

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Education

“For teachers accompanying the children, it’s a unique opportunity to demonstrate the curriculum concepts taught in school alongside the real-life counterparts” impacts, it soaks into every part of our being when we are in a rural place and able to access it.”

Photos: Farms for City Children

FFCC staff are experienced in putting children in novel scenarios and asking them to perform new activities which can have a wide range of knock-on benefits. “When we’re mucking out chicken sheds, it may not necessarily be fun but it’s genuine work that needs doing which helps to build resilience; we push them to challenge themselves.

Working with animals does that. For some, the challenge might be touching the animals, for others, just being near them is a challenge.”

She added: “We have lost a lot of connection with the land, the way our ancestors lived, how we relied upon nature, how we’ve evolved. It’s my opinion the mental health pandemic comes from being disconnected from production, nature and toil, disconnection with the seasons. That’s where we’ve evolutionarily come from so it makes sense that our health depends on it.”

The psychological benefits of nature are only one part of what a residential farm visit can offer. For teachers accompanying the children, it’s a unique opportunity to demonstrate the curriculum concepts taught in school alongside the real-life counterparts.

“Children know loads about topics they study within the National Curriculum, such as pollination, and they love telling us about it because they can see it in action, but they don’t know much about the importance of soil health, for example. They study habitats a lot in school, but their understanding of this is still very basic.

They don’t understand that different insects need different habitats because

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the teachers don’t get enough time to teach these things, the curriculum is too full to cover everything.”

And there can be benefits for teachers too. “One young teacher from South West London wanted to go for a run, so I recommended some routes. When I asked her how she found it, she said it was amazing and that she’d never run through grass before. I really struggled to grasp that.”

Farming and education

For Stevie and the whole FFCC team, the need for farm and environmental education is growing. “Schools need to have opportunities to focus on the natural world. They need to be able to access wild spaces and have space within their teaching schedule to use them. That’s what I hope will happen but it's all about funding and time. We need more money, time, and teacher training so teachers have the opportunity to understand the natural environment, food and farming more so they can convey it with passion to the children.”

FFCC work towards this goal on a daily basis. As a registered charity, Stevie and the team are aware government funding isn’t waiting around the corner, so the more enthusiasm shown by schools, parents, teachers, children and, most importantly, farmers, the better.

“Every child should benefit from nature, whether you live in a rural or urban environment, whether you have money or not. I believe access to the natural environment to be a right we all have,” said Stevie. “There are so many health and wellbeing

How can farmers help?

“I think connections between schools and real-life farmers help teachers to be able to cover content. There’s quite a lot of initiatives that help teachers link to farmers such as the NFU Farmers for Schools programme, which I would encourage” Stevie said. “The most important, in my opinion, would be to get children outside the classroom more.”

As Michael Morpurgo neatly sums up in his book Farm Boy: “You could learn most of what was worth knowing from keeping your eyes and ears peeled.

Best way of learning, he always said, was doing”.

For more information on the work of Farms for City Children, or to support the important work that they are doing, visit farmsforcitychildren.org/

September 2023

13/09/2023 14:41:44

Education

From farm to fork

Ambassador Rhea Auton explores the importance of educating adults and children alike on the connection between food and farming

C

oming from a dual-occupation household, with my father in agriculture and mother working for the NHS, I’ve always been interested in perceptions of the agricultural industry from both those within and outside of the industry.

After a fellow ambassador spoke with a sixyear-old who thought that sausages grow on trees and eggs come from the supermarket, it struck me there’s been a huge disconnect between people, food, farming and the environment over the past 80 years. This prompted me to become involved with the NFU’s Farmers for Schools programme, which aims to get farmers into schools, talking to children and young adults about the agricultural industry, and hopefully doing a bit of myth-busting too! Although it can be daunting speaking to teenagers, it is hugely rewarding knowing that you have taught someone something they did not previously know, and I am looking forward to doing this in the autumn at my first school visit.

It’s great that we are educating children and young people, but educating adults is equally important. It’s important to give people a better understanding of agriculture, of the work that farmers do, and the opportunities available within the industry to enable the public to make educated choices about the food they eat, and not just fashionable choices.

Two of the most important things I have realised in life is that communicating and connecting with people will get you a long way. As an industry we need to embrace change and alter how we connect with those from outside the agricultural industry. No matter your opinion of him, Jeremy

Clarkson has done a lot of work to raise the profile of agriculture in the past few years. We, as the future of the industry, can take a lot from this and adapt our approach to educating the public about agriculture going forward.

Making changes to a farming business that can involve bringing the public on farm is a great way of educating, and diversification projects such as milk vending machines have been popular in recent years. Creating a whole consumer experience gets people thinking about the food they’re eating, how it is produced and where it comes from, as well as supporting local producers and small businesses.

LEAF Open Farm Sunday and your local county shows are another great opportunity to interact with the general public, as well as being a good day out for us farmers!

With education vital for the future security of British agriculture, I urge you to sign up to the NFU Farmers for Schools programme. Training days are being held on 17 October at Northwest Jubilee Hall, Malpas, Cheshire, and on 23 and 24 October, at NFU HQ in Stoneleigh and the NFU London office respectively. NFU’s Chief Education Manager Joshua Payne said: “Feedback from schools has been exceptional, and with over 60 visits already booked in for the autumn term we’re hoping to build this project.”

Furthermore, if you are able to do so, invite local schools onto your farm for an educational visit. As part of Countryside Stewardship funding, grants are available for farmers hosting educational visits allowing schoolchildren and care farming clients to visit their farm to learn, understand and be engaged with farming and the environment.

September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:44:53

Better together

British farmers raise sheep to the highest welfare, sustainability and environmental standards. Yet we know that you face challenges like never before.

As a farmer co-operative, British Wool collects, grades and markets wool on behalf of our farmer members. We promote the benefits of wool and develop new markets for this incredible natural resource. Everything we do is about adding value to British wool to maximise value for you, our farmers, to enable you to continue doing what you do best – producing high quality, sustainable fibre that customers can rely on.

To find out more call us on 01274 688666 or visit our website at

britishwool.org.uk Together we’re growing something special.

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September 2023

12/09/2023 16:15:15

Road Trip

W

hat trip would be complete without a visit to a farm?

At least that’s what makes a trip for me and my two farming-mad friends, Anna and Melissa.

After road-tripping through the Rockies, taking in the amazing scenery on the route to Calgary, Alberta, we entered the prairies with endless acres of farmland without a single tree or hedgerow in sight!

We’d been lucky to be connected with a sustainable rancher thanks to James Rebanks, author of English Pastoral, a few months earlier. Originally from Australia, Graeme Finn now lives in Alberta with his family on a 2,800-acre ranch. He has a closed herd of Angus-cross-Hereford sucklers on a mixture of permanent pastures and herbal leys. His cattle are grazed all year round, which is impressive considering the tough Alberta winters where temperatures can be as low as -40 degrees and everywhere is covered with a thick layer of snow. In the summer months, he grazes pasture using rotational cell grazing, while in winter the cattle swath graze nutrient-dense forage crops of rape and triticale that get laid down by the snow.

Bales are also left out as winter fodder.

The growing season in Alberta is only five months, so getting the forage crops established and maintaining forage through the year is important. He uses plants like sainfoin, which is a natural anthelmintic and doesn’t cause bloat, to provide high-quality forage for his cattle.

He also discussed herd selection criteria with us, noting how he must be tough so only cows which suit his system are kept within the closed herd. He said his system is unique and a lot more extensive than the majority of cattle farmers in Alberta who would bring their cattle in

Musings from across the pond Ambassador Louise Penn shares her findings from a recent trip to Canada where she combined sight-seeing with a farm visit

Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Louise Penn

over winter. However, it only costs him $1.26 a day/head to feed, while the average is around $3.50 and some ranches up to $5.50. Graeme’s system focuses on pushing inputs down over the year rather than chasing the good calf market.

My trip has made me realise we have a lot to learn from farming overseas.

Canada, along with other countries such as Australia and New Zealand, are farming without any subsidies from the government and in extreme environments, having to adapt their farming systems.

Graeme only has a cropping window of five months a year and, so far this year, has only had four inches of rainfall compared

to the usual 13. Our temperate climate and growing season allow us to grow a variety of winter and spring crops and is something we should perhaps be more grateful for. The UK is increasingly seeing more extreme weather events and it’s from these other countries that we need to learn how to increase the resilience of our businesses and adapt. I think it is extremely important that the future generation of our industry looks beyond UK farming.

I learned so much from Graeme and would really encourage everyone to book in some farm visits during your next trip, where possible.

September 2023

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Things to do...

Things to do...

4 - 8 Oct Horse of the Year Show

Looking for something to do to see out the last few months of the year but don't have the budget to travel overseas?

Alexander Payne has you sorted.

SEPTEMBER 2023

OCTOBER 2023

6 Sep – 10 Oct Busted 38 dates across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland Tickets: £41.45 ticketmaster.co.uk/busted-tickets/ artist/26357

3 Oct – 5 Oct 5 Seconds of Summer Glasgow OVO Hydro, Manchester AO Arena and London O2 Tickets: £46.55 ticketmaster.co.uk/5-seconds-ofsummer-tickets/artist/1778118

15 Sep – 31 Dec Warehouse Project Manchester Depot Mayfield Tickets: £38.50 ticketmaster.co.uk/the-warehouseproject-tickets/artist/1752795

4 Oct – 8 Oct Horse of the Year Show Birmingham The NEC Tickets: from £44.25 for full entry hoys.co.uk/

17 Sep – 13 Oct Freya Ridings 13 dates across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland Tickets: £30.85 ticketmaster.co.uk/freya-ridingsbirmingham-10-10-2023/ event/3E005E91B87117D8 22 Sep Harper Adams Graduation Party Newport The Barn Tickets: £8.50 harpersu.native.fm/event/graduationparty-1/85790 23 Sep - 31 Oct Farmer Copleys Pumpkin Festival Farmer Copleys, Pontefract farmercopleys.co.uk 27 Sep - 8 Jun Romesh Ranganathan 78 dates across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland Tickets: from £30.00 ticketmaster.co.uk/romeshranganathan-tickets/artist/1921098

5 Oct – 28 Oct Munya Chawawa 13 dates across England and Scotland Tickets: £30.75 ticketmaster.co.uk/munya-chawawatickets/artist/5386979 9 Oct –13 Oct National Young Farmers' Week nfyfc.org.uk 17 Oct – 3 Nov Maisie Peters 8 dates across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland Tickets: £44.65 ticketmaster.co.uk/maisie-peterstickets/artist/5247013

23 Oct Harper Adams Scholarship Fair 2023 Harper Adams University Sports Hall harper-adams.ac.uk/events/4554/ scholarship-fair-2023 23 Oct – 22 Nov McFly Various locations ticketmaster.co.uk/mcfly-tickets/ artist/985157#events 27 Oct – 04 Nov Fall Out Boy 7 dates across England and Wales Tickets: from £54.56 ticketmaster.co.uk/fall-out-boytickets/artist/854398

17 - 18 Jan LAMMA

Birmingham NEC

30 Sep Misery Loves Company Festival Bristol, multiple venues Tickets: from £50.40 miserylovescompanyfestival.co.uk/

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September 2023

13/09/2023 11:09:06

Things to do...

3 - 5 Jan Oxford Farming Conference

DECEMBER 2023 10 Dec – 22 Dec Hozier 9 dates across England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland Tickets: from £38.80 ticketmaster.co.uk/hozier-unrealunearth-tour-liverpool-10-12-2023/ event/37005ECEE92C94B9

23 Oct Harper Adams Scholarship Fair 2023

NOVEMBER 2023 3 Nov – 2 Dec Scouting For Girls 25 dates across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland Tickets: £31.35 ticketmaster.co.uk/scouting-for-girlstickets/artist/1262752 10 Nov – 12 Nov Your Horse Live Warwickshire, Stoneleigh Park Tickets: from £25 yourhorselive.co.uk/ 16 Nov – 6 Jan The House of Bernarda Alba London, Lyttelton Theatre Tickets from £20 nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ the-house-of-bernarda-alba/

20 Nov – 29 Nov Anne-Marie 6 dates across England, Wales and Ireland Tickets: £52.50 ticketmaster.co.uk/anne-marie-tickets/ artist/2216726 22 Nov – 13 Jan Infinite Life London, Dorfman Theatre Tickets: from £20 nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ infinite-life/ 27 Nov – 28 Nov Royal Welsh Winter Fair Royal Welsh Showground Tickets: £30 rwas.wales/winter-fair/ 30 Nov – 4 Dec Lil Yachty 4 dates across England and Scotland Tickets: £47.00 ticketmaster.co.uk/lil-yachty-tickets/ artist/2240244 30 Nov – 11 Dec Ashnikko 8 dates across England, Scotland and Ireland Tickets: £29.05 ticketmaster.co.uk/ashnikko-tickets/ artist/5276436#gallery

14 Dec - 21 Dec Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds 6 dates across England, Wales and Scotland Tickets: £41.25 ticketmaster.co.uk/noel-gallagher-shigh-flying-birds-tickets/artist/1637030 19 Dec MÅNESKIN Manchester AO Arena Tickets from £51.75 ticketmaster.co.uk/maneskin-tickets/ artist/5284580

JANUARY 2024 3 Jan – 5 Jan The Oxford Farming Conference Oxford, Oxford Examination Schools Tickets: TBA ofc.org.uk/conference/2024 25 Jan – 10 March The World According to Kaleb 34-date theatre tour across various locations Ticket prices vary www.kaleblive.com 17 Jan – 18 Jan LAMMA 2024 Birmingham NEC Tickets: TBA lammashow.com/ September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:09:14

Mental health

COVER STORY

Shining a spotlight on mental health Ambassador Darcy Johnson shares why taking care of your

mental health is so important and her top tips for helping yourself and those around you

A

s I write, I’m sitting at the kitchen table, cuppa in hand, dog sat at my feet. I’ve just checked the stock which are all well, and I’ve walked the spring barley which, thankfully, is looking a lot more promising after a good dosing of rain last week.

Today, in my own company, comforted by the peaceful stillness of home, this is pure bliss.

But, as I’m sure all of you have experienced in one way or another, there are times where the peaceful stillness is a daunting silence and one’s own company becomes wretched isolation. Times where the stock aren’t all well, and the weather isn’t playing ball. Times where stress and anxiety take hold.

This is okay; it’s okay not to be okay.

Working in the farming industry can be

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one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, but the pressures can be incredibly challenging too.

Rural isolation, stigma and a lack of awareness are some of the main reasons rural communities suffer with poor mental health and fail to seek help.

I simply cannot put into words how much it saddens me that as a young person starting out in the agriculture industry, I’ve already met wonderful, energised, young people that have since taken their own life.

People who you would have never thought to worry about, but who were battling so deeply and silently within themselves.

While we’re beginning to see a culture change in our sector, with talking about mental health becoming more and more accepted, there are still too many of our community ignoring signs and struggling in silence. A change of mindset is needed;

never be afraid to ask for help, no problem is insurmountable.

It was an absolute privilege to be invited to Parliament earlier this year for the NFU’s Summer Reception which was themed around ‘talking mental health’.

I was enthused to be in a room of so many MPs, peers and charities, discussing this important topic and raising awareness of the stress and anxiety running a farming business can come with, especially during this time of political and economic uncertainty. It was refreshing to see the NFU address rural mental health head on and urge government to take vital action to support them in this stride.

Mental health can’t be something we are afraid to talk about. It is real and it is affecting more people around you than you think. I can only hope the recent amazing work of Andy and Lynda Eadon

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:29:08

Mental health

Len’s light shines on

T DARCY’S TIPS FOR TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH •

• • • •

• • •

Speak up – both if you’re feeling low and to let your mates know you’re always free to listen Check on your farming neighbours and friends Take advantage of community events Keep active If you struggle to talk, write down your feelings and concerns Get enough sleep Take up a hobby Make the most of local support

and Olly Harrison have opened more people’s eyes and made it clear that it’s okay to not be on top form all of the time, and more importantly it’s ok to talk about it.

So I urge you, put this magazine down, ring that friend you haven’t spoken to for a while, check up on that mate, and take a minute to talk.

NFU Community Farming Hero for the North West Olly Harrison was among a team of four that drove a combine harvester from John O' Groats to Land's End this summer, raising awareness and funds for Mind mental health charity and Children with Cancer UK. The total currently stands at £90,000. Donate here: justgiving. com/team/combinejogle

his summer, NFU Community Farming Heroes Lynda and Andy Eadon travelled 2,239 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End, spreading the message that no-one should feel alone or isolated in the UK’s rural communities.

The Stratford and South Warwickshire NFU members’ son, Len, lost his life to suicide on New Year’s Day 2022. Since then, Lynda and Lynda and Andy Eadon in Cornwall at the end of Andy have dedicated their lives the Len’s Light Tractor Relay to creating greater mental health awareness among young people involved in farming.

The latest campaign saw Andy take to the road in a tractor provided by John Deere, fitted with a front-mounted beacon that was made by Len’s friends, stopping off at livestock markets along the route to meet and talk to people.

“Surreal, I think is the best word to sum it up,” Lynda said when asked about the experience. “We were amazed by the level of support we had throughout the country.”

Andy added: “It was an incredible journey, and every mile was worth it. We’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime and laid foundations for us to carry on our work and take rural mental health to the next level.”

The trip saw Lynda and Andy hit the road for a calendar month between 20 June and 20 July, with Andy driving about 100 miles in the tractor each day. It also included a stop at Westminster as Lynda and Andy travelled to Parliament Square, where Farming Minister Mark Spencer took the wheel to drive the tractor around the square and into the Houses of Parliament.

Worth every mile

Speaking to Student Farmer after the mammoth journey, Lynda said meeting local people at livestock markets along the way was the highlight of the trip.

“Meeting the local communities; the markets, the auctioneers, the local people who came out to see us was, for me, a highlight because it meant that our message, and what we were trying to do really meant something.”

Andy added: “It was all done on passion. Our message all the way was that we want to stop other families going through the heartache that Lynda and I have been through, and we have been told that we have made that difference. That’s why I said every mile has been worth it.”

Points of Light

Lynda and Andy recently received Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s daily Points of Light award for their work to raise awareness of suicide in agricultural communities.

Farming Minister Mark Spencer said he was delighted Lynda and Andy are receiving the award “in recognition of their tireless work to draw attention to mental health challenges in rural communities”.

He added: “Poor mental health is sadly one of the biggest hidden problems facing the farming industry today and we must continue to do all we can to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in the farming community and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need.”

Lynda said: “Andy and I feel honoured but humbled to have been chosen as recipients of the Points of Light award. The work we have undertaken in Len’s name has been driven by the need to get people, especially youngsters in the rural community, talking about mental health issues. In particular that of suicide following the tragic loss of our son Leonard at the age of 22.”

Funds from the Len’s Light campaign were split across three charities: Farming Community Network, the Farm Safety Foundation and Papyrus. The total currently stands at over £150,000. You can donate here: leneadon.muchloved.com/ September 2023

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STUDY AT REASEHEATH OPEN DAYS 23/24 Saturday 7 October

AGRICULTURE COURSES • Level 1 Land and Environmental Studies • Transition to T Level in Agriculture (Level 2)

Saturday 4 November

• T Level in Agriculture (Livestock Production pathway)

Saturday 2 December

• Apprenticeships in Agriculture

Saturday 13 January Saturday 10 February Saturday 23 March Saturday 20 April Saturday 8 June reaseheath.ac.uk/ course-open-days

“Throughout my time at Reaseheath I was encouraged to develop my own ideas, further my knowledge and work independently.

Although I have a non-farming background, I’m passionate about dairy cows and their welfare and this was encouraged throughout my studies.

I now work for a global leader in animal health and pharmaceutical products, which I really enjoy.”

Connor Smith Former Reaseheath College and University Centre Reaseheath student, 2016 -2021

reaseheath.ac.uk/agriculture

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UCR

Study at UCR Agriculture Degrees • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Dairy Herd Management • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Livestock Management • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Crop Management • BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture Top-up

Open Days 23/24 Saturday 14 October Saturday 11 November Saturday 10 February Saturday 8 June ucreaseheath.ac.uk/open-days

ucreaseheath.ac.uk/agriculture

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12/09/2023 16:15:25

Middle Ground Growers

COVER STORY

From the ground up Ambassador, and head grower at Middle Ground Growers Hamish Evans shares some of the challenges, joys and lessons that came with starting a farm business John Cottle

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September 2023

13/09/2023 11:58:25

Middle Ground Growers

HAMISH’S TIPS TO GROW A SUCCESSFUL AND MEANINGFUL ENTERPRISE FROM THE GROUND UP

1

Start somewhere Develop a small and slow model as a first step, even if you don’t know the end game or how it might come about.

2

Harvest a diversity of experiences Gather learnings all along the way from all opportunities and interactions big and small.

T

he process of starting a farm enterprise from scratch is both daunting and exciting, turbulent and grounding. Any enterprise start-up requires a level of dedication, motivation, resilience and diligence, but for farming businesses this is all amplified ten-fold. The good news is, so are the rewards.

I began working on regenerative farms as a teenager, gaining experience in New Zealand, Australia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Israel and Palestine, returning home, aged 19, where I soon began establishing a small ¼ acre leased market garden plot. This opportunity came up through various work and volunteering at local farms and community gardens.

Growing a few cabbages for a local shop soon expanded to 30 veg boxes for local families delivered by bike, then 80 boxes by 2021, 120 weekly boxes by 2022. Our growing area has expanded after proving a small and successful model, then gaining amazing support from our community to collectively purchase land for our long-term security and vision to be implemented. From this 15.5-acre farm in Somerset, we are now generating £154,000 of annual revenue from nearly 200 veg boxes and 12 wholesale outlets, employing five living wages on the farm and three paid trainee growers each year.

I started with no money, no land, no farming background – and no idea, really! Living on a 23ft canal boat from age 16, I built up the business from its own income – small and slow for years. It came with challenges, but this has been vastly outweighed by the joys; the land reconnection, the daily purpose and drive it gives me and now, a settled livelihood and thriving team enterprise with my mates! Stories of entrepreneurship are too often based on the successful, ‘heroic’

3

Collaborate Share the joys and challenges of farming with business partners/family/friends, combine skillsets with shared values and aligned vision. Compromise where you need to for collaboration to work, or where you need to make it work economically in the early years – don’t be dogmatic or inflexible.

efforts of one individual, often male, privileged and endowed with start-up capital, land and good ‘luck’. In contrast, this start-up owes its success to deep collaboration with nature, Don’t let doubts dominate co-growers and community.

Its fine to have pragmatic considerations The business and farm for the where/why/how of the enterprise, but really kicked off when my don’t let these doubts dominate over your best friends and fellow passion, vision and hope to make it happen growers joined the mission through these challenges. and vision for a resilient local food system – healthy fresh Context veg grown organically and Ask what makes your business relevant in delivered by bike from farm to this time and for future generations, this will door. We built the enterprise make your enterprise stand out and gather and permaculture land plan momentum. For example, sustainability with shared values and longvalues, e-bike delivery, animal welfare term vision. Alongside this standards, direct supply to community. underlying commonality, it is the different skills and perspectives that makes for dynamic skills for a farm (the hands). Balance these collaboration. Balancing the head, heart in your business start-up and you will and hands is crucial – and this is the core begin to thrive. of our success. Having amazing people on You don’t have to do it all, and it’s much the team that can connect communities more fun with friends. Collaboration is also and hold the vision (the heart), people that more resilient and distributed; essential for bring the business brains and enterprise a future fit farm as we are each able to take logic (the head) and the essential practical holidays, rotate roles and rest – a paradigm

4 5

The vision is for a resilient local food system - healthy fresh veg grown organically and delivered by bike from farm to door September 2023

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Middle Ground Growers shift for farming which could help tackle issues in the industry from mental health to business fragility in the changing economic and physical climate.

At the core of our mission is training three paid apprentices each year. These new entrant farmers learn the basics of enterprise and regenerative farming to take into their own projects with our support. Rather than our business scale growing individually, we prioritise reaching appropriate ecological scale, then refining, pollinating and multiplying for a resilient, distributed and collaborative food system to emerge – which I am happy to say is happening!

Step by step Ambassador Emily Marshall explores the links between farmers, suppliers, processers, and supermarkets within the agricultural supply chain

T

he supply chain is often long and complicated; at each stage of the chain there are multiple people and companies involved.

I don’t need to explain the hard work involved in getting animals or produce to the farm gate – there’ll be many experts among you!

Once a product gets to the processors and manufacturers, there are whole teams of people who are involved. Lairage staff and butchers would probably be the teams that you’d most commonly think of, but behind the scenes there are many more. Technical teams are responsible for ensuring that the food we all eat is safe, traceable and legally compliant.

Commercial teams work with retailers on making sure that we can sell the right product to the end consumer in the most cost-effective way. The agriculture team (where I come in!) works with farmers and retailers on making sure that at farm level we are giving the end consumer what they want in a safe and sustainable way; that can be anything from looking at health and welfare, helping our supplying farms reduce their carbon footprint and ensuring that farms are compliant with national standards and certification bodies like Red Tractor. Last but not least, there are marketing and new product development (NPD) teams that analyse research data and study trends to understand why people shop in the way

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that they do and how we can use that to make their shopping experience easier. They identify future consumer trends in new flavours and develop new products from concepts through to launch that keep delighting consumers and make them want to come back to buy our delicious product.

You wouldn’t be alone in thinking that the hard work goes on at the bottom of the supply chain and that once a product in a pack has arrived at the shelf “Everyone along the supply chain has edge then the work is done. contributed to ensuring high welfare, Wrong I’m afraid! For every team safe, affordable, and nutritious food at processor and manufacturing level there are also counterparts to the British consumer and you can who work within the retailers. If also play a part” you really think about it, the end whatever qualifications you have and consumer is our customer, wherever you regardless of the course you’ve studied. are in the supply chain. Retailer teams are I have a biology degree and have a closest to the end consumer and therefore wonderful career in agriculture, so I’m are best placed to understand how we need living proof that it is possible, wherever to develop our supply chains and products your interests lie. Everyone along to give the end consumer what they want. the supply chain has contributed to There are a plethora of careers and ensuring high welfare, safe, affordable, jobs available in the Agri Food supply and nutritious food to the consumer chain. I’ve only mentioned a few above, and you can also play a part. Ask and working on farm is just one part of it. yourself, where you could fit, where Different areas of the supply chain offer your next career step may be, and how different benefits, working patterns and you could work towards delivering opportunities; there are jobs available amazing food for the nation! in agriculture that will suit everyone,

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:59:15

Minette Batters

Talking with the top Ambassador, and Livestock Board Co-optee, Amanda Watson, caught up with NFU President Minette Batters on livestock, leadership, and legacy

A

s a young farmer with a passion for livestock, I was keen to get Minette’s insights into the industry. Not only does she lead the NFU, but she farms her own beef herd and has led hugely successful initiatives to help promote British beef – a cause close to my heart as a woman in beef myself!

Growing up on an upland farm with a 200-cow suckler herd and lambing 800 ewes sparked my passion for livestock, and today I farm in North Yorkshire on my partner’s farm, finishing beef and sheep, alongside working as a livestock specialist for Woodhead Bros (Morrisons). I also lamb a small flock of North of England Mule Ewes and Beltex cross sheep, and keep bees as a hobby.

I’d like to advance my career within the livestock sector and hope to improve my numbers and have a better focus on data and efficiency moving forwards.

President of the NFU since 2018, Minette was instrumental in establishing Ladies in Beef in 2010. She said: “I was frustrated about the great story surrounding British beef and that both the environmental and health benefits of eating quality beef wasn’t being told 15 years ago.”

Speaking about the launch of Ladies in Beef, which, with the addition of its Great British Beef Week aims to highlight and promote British beef, Minette said the key is to create a campaign with a positive message to solve difficult issues, but notes care must be taken with any campaign not to overpower or overload the audience.

A defining farming moment

In addition to her work establishing Ladies in Beef, Minette highlights the Farm Business Tenancy and the NFU food standards petition among her greatest achievements.

“That’s a hard question,” she said when I asked what her most influential moments in both farming and her NFU career were.

“In farming, it was securing the Farm Business Tenancy (FBT).”

Having grown up with the impression that succession tenancy was the only option, the realisation that FBT with a renewal option was available marked a significant turning point for Minette and was a transformative experience that challenged preconceived notions and paved the way for her successful farming endeavours.

“Everyone thought I was mad,” Minette said about applying for the FBT originally.

“The most influential moment in the NFU was the food standards petition which gained one million signatures from consumer groups, chefs and concerned citizens,” she added, noting it was an “amazing amount of traction in one month”. As part of this campaign, September 2023

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Minette Batters

“Farming has never been easy and is not for everyone. If you want to succeed the opportunities are great, and greater than they have ever been.”

Minette and her team orchestrated a concerted effort that included a letter to then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson and a collaboration with the Mail on Sunday, effectively advocating for higher food standards. The campaign’s rapid traction in just one month underscored the power of collective action and effective communication.

Legacy

As NFU President, Minette aimed to gain headlines for her leadership focusing on her actions rather than her gender as the first female to lead the NFU. Minette wants the NFU to continue to be a diverse organisation that is there for all farmers, stating it is there to “cater for small farms through to big corporations”. Her advice for her successor is to “live or die on behalf of members”, summarising not only her passion, but her respect for those in the industry that have put their faith in her as farming’s voice.

Meanwhile, balancing her responsibilities as NFU President with her roles as a farmer and entrepreneur is a constant juggling act for Minette. She acknowledges simplifying her business model and occasionally sacrificing certain plans are necessary to accommodate the demands of her leadership position.

NFU President Minette Batters with Rishi Sunak during his visit to NFU headquarters

Despite this, she remains hands-on in her farming operations, even if it means working on weekends, and makes every effort to be at home each night, acknowledging the importance of occasionally stepping back from the constant demands to gain perspective.

Looking ahead, Minette said she sees opportunities and challenges as two sides of the same coin.

Trade deals present both obstacles and avenues for growth, with the need to maintain carcase balance. We have an opportunity to export high-quality products such as grass-fed beef and enhance competitiveness, she said, adding that the industry needs to be

NFU President Minette Batters delivering her opening address to members at the NFU Annual Conference 2023

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“ambitious and adaptable” in the face of these challenges.

It’s a line I agree with. We are producing excellent product in the UK across beef, lamb and pork with high welfare standards.

We need to tell the story better and create new export opportunities to counter any imports. In my opinion, the biggest barriers are land price and capital because it still takes a huge amount of resource to set up a livestock farming system with low margins and long-term payback.

A message for young farmers

Minette imparts her wisdom by saying: “Farming has never been easy and is not for everyone. If you want to succeed the opportunities are great, and greater than they have ever been.”

Minette herself is a testament to this, having become a leading figure in the agricultural sector. Her journey from a farm business tenancy revelation to advocating for food standards and leading the NFU exemplifies the dedication and vision required to make a lasting impact in the farming industry. As she continues to balance her roles as a farmer and leader, her insights remain invaluable for those aspiring to shape the future of agriculture.

I find it hugely inspiring that Minette has been an entrepreneur, securing a Farm Business Tenancy against the odds and growing the business to run multiple successful enterprises alongside rising to the top of the NFU. I would love in the future to be able to support the livestock industry through the NFU and see many opportunities to grow my own enterprises.

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:32:16

Lobbying 101

Lobbying 101 Ambassador Hannah Cuthbert shares her top lobbying tips and explains why speaking up and speaking out is so important for young farmers

P

erhaps now more than ever, the link between agriculture and decisions made in Westminster has never been so evident.

New government policy, the withdrawal from the EU and the impact of the war in Ukraine on grain prices, to name just a few, have affected most, if not all, farmers across the country.

My fellow Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors visited the NFU’s Westminster office this summer for a day exploring the relationship between politics and farming. We learned how to lobby MPs ahead of events as part of the ambassador programme, which provides an opportunity to be the voice of the next generation and to speak with a variety of MPs. And after an insightful morning learning how the NFU works with government to ensure agricultural representation in Westminster, it was time to put what we had learned to the test.

We met with Dr Dan Poulter MP to discuss agriculture with a focus on encouraging young entrants into farming.

As a huge advocate for apprenticeships, I asked Dr Poulter how this government could develop incentives to encourage the uptake of agricultural apprenticeships from those not necessarily going to an agricultural college.

Dr Poulter explained that while apprenticeships are a brilliant initiative, there is still more the government could do to achieve this, such as the removal of ‘red tape’ around the scheme.

Throughout the ambassador programme, there are ample opportunities to develop and engage in politics.

Representing the NFU, we have met with Defra ministers and shadow minsters to provide a voice for young people in farming, raising industry-specific questions. As we progress through the programme, our aim will be to make a real difference to the industry and we have been encouraged to contact our local MPs to set up a lobbying meeting. Given the geographical spread of the ambassadors, there is an opportunity for the voice of young people in farming to really be heard.

As with any issue, the more people who speak up, the bigger our industry’s voice is, and I would encourage every NFU

FIVE TOP LOBBYING TIPS:

1

Don’t be afraid

2

Be clear

3

Remember

4

Spread the word

5

Do your research

6

Think before you speak

MPs don’t know what you don’t tell them. They are voted in to represent their constituents – so make sure that your thoughts are represented!

The more concise, the easier to read; the easier to read, the easier to act.

Most MPs don’t have farming knowledge so they may not understand your reasoning. If you can, invite them to your farm or place of work.

“Throughout the ambassador programme, there are ample opportunities to develop and engage in politics. Representing the NFU, we have met with Defra ministers and shadow minsters to provide a voice for young people in farming” member, young or old, to contact their local MP and encourage conversations.

As our meetings at NFU Conference with Mark Spencer MP (Farming Minister) and Daniel Zeichner MP (Shadow Farming Minister), and indeed with Dr Poulter (who only weeks before had been out on farm with my fellow ambassador Tom McVeigh) proved, MPs are willing to listen, willing to encourage conversations and willing to support our industry.

It is down to us to instigate these discussions to ensure the best decisions come out of Westminster for agriculture.

Speak to friends, family and co-workers. Whether they’re in farming or not, it’s backing up your point, and then other people’s opinions will likely favour your voice.

The internet can be a wonderful thing, have a quick Google or a Twitter search and see if your issue is a wider one.

Compose your argument according to the time you have with an MP. If they seem genuinely engaged, give them a piece of homework on the subject; i.e. speak to the minister about it, write a parliamentary question on the matter. If they don’t seem convinced, move onto another topic and follow up with additional info in your thank you email.

Want to become an NFU Ambassador?

Applications are open, turn to page 38 to see how to apply September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:18:05

Dairy

10/7 milking explained Ambassador Evie Rogers drills down into the New Zealand 10/7 style milking routine and explores if it’s the answer to efficiency and sustainability

T

he UK dairy sector is undergoing significant transformation, with a decrease in the number of producers and a simultaneous increase in milk yields per cow overall. This shift has prompted discussions about the sustainability and efficiency of the conventional ‘twice-a-day’ milking. Some farms have already looked at New Zealand’s grazing practices and adopted their grazing successes on our UK farms – so why haven’t we looked more at their 10/7 milking routine?

New Zealand dairy farmers have emerged as pioneers in flexible milking schedules, moving away from traditional twice-a-day (TAD) milking to explore systems such as the 10/7 milking routine. This approach involves milking cows 10 times within a seven-day period, offering a range of benefits that could contribute to both the wellbeing of the cows and the operational efficiency of the farm.

For example, within the context of the 10-in-7 milking system, cows undergo a twice-a-day (TAD) milking regiment for three days, with alternate days on a once-a-day schedule.

As we move to a more sustainable way of farming, prompted by the agricultural sector’s aim to hit the Net Zero target by 2040 (as set by the NFU), does the 10/7 routine improve sustainability and efficiency on-farm?

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In terms of benefits provided by 10/7, a significant advantage of the 10/7 milking routine is the potential to reduce labour demands at a time where the industry is experiencing labour shortages; this system can lessen the strain on sourcing labour.

The 10/7 milking routine results in fewer milking sessions, which in turn reduces energy consumption associated with milking equipment and cooling systems.

This can lead to lower electricity costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

Reduced milking sessions can also lead to increased herd contact time and allow farmers additional time to focus on other on-farm operations. The 10/7 system could also provide a solution to help encourage new entrants into the sector, as it provides

flexibility for team members, reduces overall labour costs, as well as allowing a more flexible lifestyle for farmers.

Linking all these attributes together means for some this system could help improve efficiency and sustainability gains on farm. Allowing flexible schedules within the workplace and different work environments can inspire new perspectives, encourage new people into the industry and drive innovative ideas.

Although the 10/7 offers a range of benefits, it is important to consider the impact on milk composition, yields, issues arising with cell count, profit margin and the increased complexity of managing the logistics of the system.

So, what’s the verdict? The 10/7 milking routine can offer a more balanced approach that capitalises on the benefits of flexible milking schedules. By providing increased herd contact time, potentially reducing labour demands and offering some farmers a better work-life balance, it emerges as a promising system that could support both sustainable practices and operational efficiency within the dairy industry. Could this system overtake our traditional TAD milking routine? As the sector experiences a scale of change, no one is quite certain which direction to head in. However, this change should also be viewed as an opportunity for businesses – not just an obstacle.

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:32:27

Dairy

Student Farmer Editor Beth Wright talks to NFU Cymru Ambassador, and trainee nutritionist at Dairy Diagnosis, Charlie Cooper-Harding What is your current role?

In April this year I joined Dairy Diagnosis, an independent nutrition company providing bespoke on-farm rations and consultancy to dairy and beef farms nationwide, with a strong emphasis on farm forages, efficiencies and profitability. On the dairy farms we use a data software that uses on-farm NMR/CIS data to form a fertility and economic assessment. Alongside nutrition and consultancy, we also provide an option for farmers to purchase bespoke feed, manufactured by six nationwide manufacturers.

Do you have an agricultural background?

I have no agricultural background at all. My parents are from London, and I grew up in the rural town of Llanfyllin. As a teenager I was into all types of sports and wanted to either be a physiotherapist or to work in the City. I can honestly say at 16/17 I didn’t know where milk came from.

What made you want to get into agriculture?

I left school at 16 without many qualifications but needed a job and money so through family friends I went to work for a fencing contractor, but 12 months of fencing on steep hills in all weather was enough for me! I then went to work for Pickstock Telford on their beef unit and that was where it all started and the fascination with the industry took off.

What has your experience of the industry been like and what advice would you give to anyone hoping to get into agriculture?

I find it such an interesting industry. It’s definitely a challenging one, but with every challenge comes opportunities. The agriculture industry can take you worldwide to work and learn. For anyone wanting to get into agriculture, make sure you research the entire industry and look at all the opportunities available within the different sectors.

There are honestly not many roles that aren’t agricultural related.

What was the reaction from your friends/ family when you said this was industry you wanted to get into?

Honestly, I don’t think they understand even today what I do for a job. They know I “work with cows” but other than that, they don’t understand. My

younger brother, Che, has, however, followed in my footsteps and works for an agricultural contractor.

What is your favourite thing about working in farming, and what challenges have you experienced?

I love that I get to see different farming systems and ideas. I can honestly say I learn something new every day and I don’t know how many roles in different industries can provide that. I am a very inquisitive, hardworking and passionate person, and I think these things in agriculture can open a lot of doors for you. Being inquisitive and willing to network with all types of people really does help, and if you’re willing to always learn and look at things from more than one perspective the opportunities are massive.

What’s been a highlight so far?

In 2022 I was awarded the Hybu Cig Cymru/Meat Promotion Wales scholarship. This is a year-long scholarship to travel anywhere to research a topic of your interest. With the demand from milk processors regarding beef/bulls from dairy and the interest shown in dairy cross beef, I thought this was a good opportunity to travel to research efficient, sustainable beef from dairy systems. I decided to travel to Chile as they are one of the largest users of beef semen on dairy cows in the world with a system that is efficient on rearing cattle. Another key interest of the trip was to research high-quality ruminant nutrition. This led to visiting Alcali, the world’s largest robotic milking herd and visiting Mollendo, who finish 22,000 head of Angus and Wagyu annually.

What do you hope to achieve in the future?

Since getting into the industry at about 17 I have always said I want to one day milk my own cows. A long-term goal would be to one day hand over these cows, or to farm on a share farming agreement, to someone from a non-agricultural background. That would be the icing on the cake for my career.

September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:32:38

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13/09/2023 10:34:02

In his own words

In his own words

Rupert Shinner shares the first of a three-part blog series ahead of his trip to

I

Japan after receiving the Devon Farm Benevolent Fund's travel scholarship

am (hopefully) 75% planned for my trip to Japan, which I will be lucky enough to undertake from mid-October to mid-January (arriving home before lambing starts, at least!), after being chosen to receive the inaugural travel scholarship as part of the Devon Farm Benevolent Fund.

Ahead of my trip, here’s a bit of background about me: I’m 28, previously studied Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture at Duchy College and have been a very keen and passionate Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) member since I was 16. I’ve done lots of roles in YFC and in the autumn of last year finished my role as Devon YFC’s AGRI officer. This was probably the highlight of my YFC career, with trips to a variety of farms throughout Devon and Cornwall and a study tour to Northern Ireland. You may have seen/heard me appear on Sky News’ Kay Burley show and feature on Radio 1 for ‘are you well, I thought you were!’ when asked to comment about the drought conditions.

Today, I farm at home with my mother and brother in South Devon, where we run a suckler herd of approximately 90 pedigree South Devon cows, including two Wagyu cross breeds, and followers, 150 Suffolk mules and their lambs, and about 40 acres of barley.

I saw the scholarship with the Devon Farm Benevolent Fund advertised through Devon YFC and had always wanted to travel to Japan to learn about farming in the country, so applied to do just that. In lots of ways I think Japan is very similar to England in that its land area and population are a lot more similar than countries like America, and that the urban areas are very sophisticated and increasing, like I feel ours are here.

I wanted to understand how consumers see Japanese produce and choose between imports and home produced. I am also interested in energy production/distribution and how the urban/rural communities engage and communicate.

Agriculture-wise I am hoping to have a greater look at rice, Wagyu beef and fish production. I asked if I could be a part of a trawler gang for a voyage, but they have said that understanding instructions clearly and experience of boats on the sea is ‘very important for safety, so no’.

I have made some great contacts thanks to the NFU, and I am due to land in Osaka and work on a grape farm there for three weeks. I’ll then head off to Kagawa on Shikoku island to work for a dairy and strawberry farmer with an ice cream shop. I’ve also been invited to look round a biomass plant near Tokyo and hope to visit Mount Fuji on the way. After this, I’ll be working for a rice, Wagyu beef and dairy farmer in

Feel free to follow my journey on Instagram: @rupertsramble and slide into my DMs with any suggestions.

Niigata. For the remainder of the trip, I should be in Hokkaido where I hope to learn more about dairy and beef practices, and visit a fishing port to learn about Japan’s fishing industry.

Fingers crossed, I’ll be able to pack in some sightseeing to Hiroshima, Kobe and Nagano too.

On my return, I plan to host a presentation evening with Japanese-inspired food on 14 March at Rattery Village Hall. Link for tickets on Instagram.

As a big fan of jokes I will be including one with each article. Here’s the first: What makes a tree noisy? ... its bark!

THE DEVON FARM BENEVOLENT FUND The Devon Farm Benevolent Fund is a charitable fund run by a group of farmers from across Devon, for the benefit of those in the county. It was born out of old Devon NFU funds, but became a charity around 15 years ago and the fund looks to help with education, welfare and legal issues to both NFU members and others in the farming community. This includes supporting those in need, either directly or through the farming charities and supporting educational activities in the county to explain food and farming to children in the county. As part of its educational work it has launched an annual travel scholarship for those aged between 21-28 to travel and bring the knowledge learned back to Devon.

September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:02:15

SYFAP

Fancy a challenge?

It's that time of year again where the team is looking to recruit its newest bunch of Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors

WHAT IS IT?

CLOSING The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador DATE Programme is a year-long series of events Applications are designed to give NFU Student & Young Farmer open now until members aged 18-30 the opportunity to midnight on impact the future of the agricultural industry by 29 September working with the NFU. 2023 It’s a year of extraordinary experiences, building your network, and unparalleled opportunities designed exclusively for individuals within the realm of farming. As an ambassador, you'll be at the forefront of shaping the agricultural landscape alongside the NFU. WHY TAKE PART?

• • • • • • • •

This is an opportunity to represent the younger generation of farmers within the UK's biggest farming membership organisation Create long-standing relationships with like-minded people from all farming sectors around the country Experience new aspects of the agricultural industry Be at the heart of political change as it unfolds Help the farming industry to become more progressive and break down boundaries Hone communication, presentation and networking skills to further professional development Increase your knowledge of the inner workings of the NFU Receive training to enable you to write for national publications, present to schools, speak to the media and engage with MPs

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WHAT’S THE APPLICATION CRITERIA?

• • • • • • •

Be an NFU Student & Young Farmer member (it’s free – sign up at NFUonline.com/student) Aged between 18 and 30 years on 1 January 2024 Be located in England or Wales Have a vested interest in farming and rural affairs Available to attend all events with confirmed dates (see timetable on next page) Have an interest in speaking to the media or writing content for various NFU publications Be committed to promoting the values of inclusivity and kindness in the industry

WHAT DOES IT COST?

All reasonable travel expenses will be covered.

The NFU will ensure that the programme is free for participants, and that ambassadors are not left out of pocket.

READY TO APPLY?

Visit NFUonline.com/Ambassadors to get your application in!

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:01:06

SYFAP

INCLUSIVITY PLEDGE We believe the more diversity within agriculture, the more innovative and exciting the future of farming will be. In line with the NFU’s value of inclusivity, the Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has always welcomed applicants from different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. We especially welcome applications from people who feel their community has, so far, been underrepresented in the agriculture industry or in the S&YFAP group, be that in relation to (but not limited to) their race, colour, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression.

TIMELINE 11 – 12 January Two-day induction at NFU HQ, Stoneleigh Park 20 – 21 February NFU Conference at the ICC, Birmingham March Get to know your regional team by spending the day visiting the regional hub April Prepare to speak to school children about farming at a Farmers For School training day

“The Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has connected me with amazing individuals who share my passion for agriculture.

Together, we’ve shared ideas, discussed our vision for the future of British farming and made a tangible impact over the past year. The programme has also provided opportunities to attend fantastic events, share my experiences and boost my confidence along the way.”

Hannah Cuthbert Student & Young Farmer Ambassador,

Early May Head to London for the day for a tour of the Houses of Parliament, and a visit to the NFU London office to find out how we lobby government for our members

August Help out the campaigns team with social media filming showcasing the best of British farming Late August Takeover the Student Farmer magazine and become Editors in Chief for the day Mid September Back British Farming Day, a chance to lobby MPs Across September Attend freshers’ fairs to promote the Student & Young Farmer membership category 8 – 9 November Walk the streets of London at the Lord Mayor’s Show promoting the importance of backing British farming

Summer Attend agricultural shows alongside the NFU

December Lobby MPs at the London Christmas Reception

29 June Show support and inclusivity by attending London Pride alongside Agrespect

January Hand over to the next cohort of ambassadors at the 2025 induction

Early July Summer trip to be confirmed – previous visits have been to The Newt, JCB, The Allerton Project, Brussels Timetable is subject to change, and events may be removed, rescheduled, or changed. Specific dates will be confirmed at a later stage.

2022/23 September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:01:14

Co-op Undergraduate Agricultural Co-ordinator 2024/25 If you’re passionate about food and animal welfare and keen to kick-start your career, our 12-month placements provide an amazing opportunity to learn and grow, working alongside industry-leading experts at the Co-op head office in Manchester.

As an Undergraduate Agricultural Co-ordinator at the Co-op, you will be an integral part of our award-winning farming and fisheries team. We will look to you to work with partners across the farming and fisheries community, helping develop agricultural plans and create powerful relationships which demonstrate and deliver Co-op’s commitment to supporting British agriculture.

Why Co-op?

This role would suit people who:

As a Co-op undergraduate, you’ll do work that matters in an organisation where principles are just as important as profits.

You’ll also get a package that includes:

• Have a passion for food and animal welfare

• Competitive salary of £21,255 • 28 days holiday (plus bank holidays) • 30% off Co-op branded products, and 10% off other brands in our food stores • Networking opportunities with key partners and industry leaders

• Communicate clearly and effectively • Can work both independently and as part of a team • Have strong analytical skills, with a logical approach to problem solving • Have strong time management and organisational skills • Have a full, clean UK driving licence

• Flexible and hybrid working • Coaching, training and support to help you develop your skills

“My day-to-day role is always changing, and I love the variety and spontaneity my job brings. The colleagues in my team have been really welcoming, and I feel so lucky that the ideas and opinions I bring to the table are valued and appreciated, even as an undergraduate.”

Lily Layton, Undergraduate Agricultural Co-ordinator

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September 2023

What happens next?

The application window for this role opens in October. If you’re interested in applying, please visit jobs.coop.co.uk/ undergraduate or scan the QR code to register your interest

12/09/2023 16:15:32

Advertising Feature

Working with the Co-op Three undergraduate students share their experiences from their time at the Co-op ahead of recruitment for the 2024-25 placements

Niamh McGrath

Immy Price

Ben Hope

I’m Niamh, an Agri-Food Marketing student at Harper Adams University and I was the Undergraduate Agricultural Co-ordinator at Co-op. I worked within the Farm and Fisheries team and helped make sure Co-op’s sourcing meets the standards and expectations of our customers. I worked alongside the farmers who supply our food products to make sure we maintain welfare standards and continue to provide high-quality products that our customers and members love.

I loved every minute of my time on placement at Co-op. The team has guided me and helped me to learn about all areas of the agricultural and food retail industries. My favourite part of this placement has been meeting our farmers and suppliers across the country, as everyone is so welcoming and willing to help me learn. I’d recommend this placement to anyone that has a true passion for understanding where their food comes from and a strong desire to make a difference.

I’m Immy, a geography student at the University of Manchester and I was the Ethics, Sustainability and Policy placement student at Co-op. I worked across the Sustainability team, focusing mainly on sustainable sourcing, Fairtrade, food waste and campaigns.

During my placement year at Co-op, I had the opportunity to lead projects and really push myself out of my comfort zone; all while being supported by a caring and inspiring team.

This is what makes Co-op different.

Everyone cares about doing the right thing and making positive changes for the future, which creates a really motivating and exciting environment. I loved my time as a placement student at Co-op so much; especially getting to learn more about how food surplus is managed throughout our supply chain, as well as getting to visit our depot redistribution partners.

I’m Ben, a Business and Marketing student at Manchester Metropolitan University and I was the Undergraduate Junior Buyer at Co-op. I worked across the Buying team, helping to develop category strategies based on customer and market insight, support commercial negotiations, and bring our ranges to life in our stores.

I had a great time on placement and I’m really proud of everything I achieved!

My main highlight has been having the responsibility of negotiating costs, forecasting volumes and reviewing submissions for our crisps strategy in 2023; helping to make sure we get the best possible products for our customers. Co-op are so committed to finding fairer and more ethical ways of doing business, and it was so rewarding to play a part in this during my time there.

Agriculture

Ethics, Sustainability and Policy

Junior Buyer

September 2023

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13/09/2023 11:01:40

Kaleb Cooper

From Chipping Norton to the world

COVER STORY

Clarkson’s Farm’s Kaleb Cooper chatted to Beth Wright about his passion for supporting young farmers, his new book, and how he feels about leaving Chipping Norton to go on tour

Photo: Plank PR

“I

f I get a nosebleed on stage, it’s totally normal.

It happens every time I go past Stow-on-the-Wold.

I’m nervous but excited.

I hope everyone has a really good laugh and learns something about farming they didn’t know before,” Kaleb told Student Farmer ahead of his 34-date theatre tour which kicks off next year, and the launch of his second book, Britain According to Kaleb; The Wonderful World of Country Life.

Due out in October, the book will be a whistle-stop tour of rural British traditions with musings on Morris Dancing and country fairs.

Speaking to Ed Beth about the latter, he said: “I don’t like sheep but seeing the little kids running around the ring with them just puts a great big smile on my face. It’s teaching people about farming but in a really fun way.”

Kaleb shot to fame after appearing on the Prime Video series Clarkson’s Farm, helping Jeremy to manage the farming.

Born in 1998, he grew up in the Cotswolds and has been working in farming since he was at school.

Although not from farming background – “my mum was a dog groomer and my dad a carpenter” – Kaleb fell in love with

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the industry from an early age.

“My mum, for my 13th birthday, bought me three chickens and within months I set up a business and had about 450.

That’s how I started, with my own chicken company. I was selling eggs round Chipping Norton to teachers and local people,” he added.

After his poultry endeavours, Kaleb turned his hand to breeding sheep and working on a dairy farm, and a year later, aged 15, he bought his first tractor.

A helping hand

It’s this love of farming from a young age that’s inspired Kaleb to help the next generation, a pledge which has seen him partner with the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) to launch a new bursary scheme for those looking to begin a career in agriculture.

The annual bursary will provide £3,000 to support a student in exploring different paths into agriculture, as well as the opportunity for a work placement with Kaleb himself, or one of his industry partners, either during the course of their

university studies, or as a gap year placement.

Open to RAU undergraduate students who are living in the UK, the bursary will open for applications in September with the first student receiving their award in early 2024.

“I know how hard it is to get into farming, to the point where I thought I’m not going to do it, nobody is going to take me on, I’m not getting any work,” he explained. “So, if I can help somebody get into farming or support them along their journey, that would really mean the world to me. I can’t wait until, maybe six- or seven-years’ time, for the people I’ve sponsored to come up to me and go ‘I was put through your bursary and now I’m in wherever farming 3,000 acres. Thanks to you, I’m where I am today’. That’s going to honestly make my day, just as much as it does when young kids dress up as me on World Book Day. “That’s what’s giving me the hype and the adrenaline to go out there and help as many students as possible.”

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:41:05

Kaleb Cooper

Photo credit: Paul Nicholls and The Royal Agricultural University

“The average age of a farmer is 62, which is fine, but those 62-year-olds have got to teach the young kids the industry. They’ve got so much knowledge up here [pointing vigorously to his head] that they need to pass on to these younger kids coming through who are going to be the future of farming. Then, in another 60 years, they can then go ‘I got taught this at 13 years old, so I’m now going to teach another 13-year-old’.

Dreams don’t work unless you do

Britain According to Kaleb; The Wonderful World of Country Life will be published in hardback, ebook and audio on 12 October 2023.

Go to www.kaleblive.com for The World According to Kaleb tour tickets

Paying it forward

Kaleb is also working on addressing the issue of student placements.

“I’ve got a young apprentice on my farm.

I left school and went straight into work, and he said he wants to do the same so I was like: ‘right, we’re away’.

“With the RAU, I can support people, but the biggest problem is trying to find a placement and that’s what I’m trying to tackle at the moment. I don’t want students to have to worry about having a placement. I’m trying to get farmers together where they can go out and agree to taking one or two students each year.”

It’s all about paying it forward.

For young people keen to get into farming, Kaleb has one main message: “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”

He added: “I’m a firm believer in setting a goal and getting there. There’s going to be a few barriers along the way but you either put your head down and go through those barriers or you stand still.”

He also champions the old-school approach of going down to the farm gate and simply chatting to the farmer.

“Go down to your local farmer and offer to help. They’re probably going to be stubborn because they’re thinking ‘I’ve got to pay another person’ but while you’re speaking to them, just give them a hand if you can because as soon as you do, they’ll go ‘oh, you’re actually really useful, actually I could do with another person on this farm’ and then you’ll get the job, I’m sure you will.”

He’s also passionate that farming is open to everyone.

“It doesn’t matter if you get As or Us, or if you don’t do GCSEs at all. I did okay on my GCSEs, and I went to agriculture apprenticeship. I got two of them and it went well and I’m where I am today, but there are so many jobs in farming that you can go and do.

“If you’re a scientist, farmers need scientists more than anything, the stuff that crops go through as a scientist is incredible. If you’re a tecchie guy or girl, you can go and design GPS or new systems [pointing at his GPS system in his tractor] – look at that, I don’t understand that, someone has set that up and designed that, it’s amazing.

“And if you want to go out there and just farm; it doesn’t matter your qualifications, who you are as a person, gender, nothing, there is a job out there for everybody and the industry is so much bigger than everyone thinks.”

Best job in the world

As to whether being thrust in the showbiz spotlight has changed him, Kaleb said no.

“I don’t think it changed me at all, I think I’m still the same person as in season one, I’ve just got a bit of a beard now and I’ve got four-and-half chest hairs, and two kids.”

And while he loves learning the new industry that is TV, it’s clear that farming still has his heart.

“No day is the same in farming. Every day is different and the day I wake up and go ‘ugh, I have to go to work today’ is the day that I’m not in the right job. Twelve years on, I’ve never done that. I wake up every day and I go ‘right, what am I doing today?’ and I do it with a smile and I’m the happiest person ever.”

As to what the future holds, Kaleb said he is a firm believer in that everything happens for a reason but one thing is for certain: “I’ll still be farming, there’s no doubt about that.”

For applications to Kaleb’s agricultural bursary with the Royal Agricultural University, visit www.rau.ac.uk September 2023

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Envirocrops

Revolutionising sustainable agriculture practices Thinking about your next research project? Enter Envirocrops.com, a cutting-edge web-based app and STEM game designed to educate and engage agricultural enthusiasts in the world of biomass production and sustainable farming practices.

T

hinking about your next research project? Enter Envirocrops.com, a cuttingedge web-based app and STEM game designed to educate and engage agricultural enthusiasts in the world of biomass production and sustainable farming practices.

UK and EU governing bodies have highlighted a massive need for expansion in biomass crop land coverage to meet essential net zero commitments.

However, although biomass crop industry information is widespread, it can sometimes be biased and outdated.

Additionally, crop planting is a long term (~20 year) commitment, hence, there is no room for mistake. That’s why NFU Energy, together with the Agri Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Northern Ireland, Crops for Energy and software developer Calvium have launched Envirocrops – a project that’s been funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to offer a unique platform that puts you in control of biomass production.

Learning

Envirocrops.com provides a hands-on learning experience, allowing students and farmers to simulate real-world agricultural scenarios. Users can make decisions on crop choices by comparing predicted yields, input costs, and crop management to match their land size and climate, giving them a clear understanding of the opportunities for growing biomass crops.

Collaborative research opportunities

With a growing community using Envirocrops, the website will serve as a directory for all the main players; a price comparison tool, and vast encyclopaedia of information, giving users one-stop-shop access to all the knowledge and contacts they need as they venture along their biomass production journey.

Practical applicability

The knowledge and skills acquired through Envirocrops.com have realworld applicability. Students, farmers and consultants can use their findings to inform and enhance sustainable farming practices, contributing to Net

Zero targets and the ongoing global efforts towards food security and environmental preservation.

By delving into the virtual world of sustainable agriculture, students can unravel innovative solutions and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

Envirocrops is more than just a research topic; it is a gateway to building a greener, more sustainable future for agriculture and our planet as a whole.

So, for the agricultural students ready to make a difference, Envirocrops awaits your exploration!

Visit envirocrops.com to get started.

Sustainable solutions

The STEM game ‘Cropper’ encourages players to tactically budget costs while harvesting different biomass crops, as well as making vital decisions around pest management and unexpected events. By exploring these solutions in a virtual environment, students gain insights into how they can be implemented in real-life farming systems.

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PRIZE GIVEAWAY! By registering with Envirocrops; using the decision-making tool and/or STEM game ‘Cropper’ and providing us with valuable feedback through the feedback form, you'll be automatically entered into our prize draw*. Ten lucky participants will each win an Amazon voucher valued at £50. Head to envirocrops.com/resource/PrizeCompetition for all of the details. *Competition closes at 5pm on 31 October 2023. T&Cs apply.

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:00:19

Sponsorship

Could we sponsor your dissertation?

Every year, the NFU Food Business Unit sponsors one university student’s dissertation. With the application window now open for 2023, we talk to

S

last year’s winner, Saskia Bottomley

askia wrote her dissertation, titled ‘Supply chain and economic issues, and their potential effects on UK food manufacturers’ as a part of her undergraduate degree in Human Nutrition with Food Marketing at Newcastle University. She sought to use her research as an opportunity to explore the perspectives of key stakeholders in the UK food manufacturing sector.

“The UK food manufacturing sector has faced a series of significant, and arguably unprecedented, supply-chain difficulties and economic pressures resulting from Covid-19, Brexit, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” she said.

“My dissertation looked at understanding the impact of current and long-standing challenges from the perspective of stakeholders, and exploring the barriers faced by stakeholders in addressing the challenges and moving towards resolutions.”

By winning the NFU dissertation sponsorship, Saskia had access to the vast array of stakeholder contacts the NFU holds from across the agri-food supply chain. This proved instrumental by providing Saskia with key information for her dissertation.

“The NFU put me in touch with stakeholders from multiple sectors of the UK food manufacturing industry, as well as farmers from across the UK.

Having a broader sample of interview participants gave me a greater insight into the challenges faced across the food supply chain and strengthened the quality of my dissertation”.

Saskia’s conclusions

“Most stakeholders would like greater support from the government. In particular: upskilling and providing labour capability; targeted tac measures to encourage investment to drive efficiencies through improved automation; and creating the right regulatory environment for investment in energy security and infrastructure.”

Future applicants

“I initially thought that my dissertation wouldn’t be relevant to apply for the sponsorship as I don’t study agriculture, but the NFU has been great in offering support throughout writing my dissertation, from putting me in contact with interview participants to helping me find the latest industry news. I would definitely recommend other students taking advantage of this opportunity!”

Go to: www.nfuonline.com/dissertation for more about the application process.

Applications close on Friday 10 November.

WANT THE CHANCE TO WIN £150 AND ACCESS TO LEADING INDUSTRY EXPERTS FOR YOUR DISSERTATION? If your dissertation is based on: Closes British food retailers Friday 10 UK food brands / manufacturers / processors November 2023 sustainable supply chain or any linked topic contact: foodchainfocus@nfu.org.uk

September 2023

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The Chief Shepherdess Meet Instagram queen, Zoë Colville

Sign up

IT’S FREE YOU SAY?

NFU Student & Young Farmer membership is free to students and young farmers. It allows you to have a say and to contribute towards the future of agriculture, and you will benefit from access to experts in policy, food and farming, plus bonus perks!

Join the largest and most influential farming association and receive: • Student Farmer magazine and British Farmer & Grower or Farming Wales magazine delivered to your door • The latest news and briefings from our policy experts in NFU Bulletin and sector-specific and regional e-newsletters • Discounted member rates to attend NFU Conference and other events • Access to members-only content on NFUonline and the NFU App with a unique login • 10% saving on B+E Trailer Training • Welfare of Animals in Transport test for £35 (+VAT) • 15% off airport parking and hotels with APH • Huge savings on Merlin Entertainment (Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and more) • Up to 25% off ATV helmets and safety clothing from Spada.

Summer gear guide We take a look at essenti al products for summer

Health and safety Take the time to ensure your safety

May 2023

MENTAL HEALTH

How small changes can make a big difference

Changing the game MEET T

Daisy's blazing a trail with her

HE NEW

camel dairy

S &Y F A

to diversM ify B A S S ADORS your farming

FIRST-GENERATION FAR MING

The magaz The farmers forgin gine their for

own you path ng farme rs s

Step out of your comfort zone

January

2023

THE BLACK FARMER on the

dangers of playing it safe

Zoe felt the fear and did it anyw ay with her innov ative dairy ventu re

PLUS. 10 ways .. save mon to ey

MENTAL H How to loo EALTH k

Beat the winter blues with our tips

after your self and others

SIX REASONS TO JOIN It's open to all students and young farmers, 30 years old and under

Student Farmer and British Farmer & Grower or Farming Wales magazines delivered to your door

Invitations to NFU meetings and discounted rates to NFU Conference

Keep up to date with a unique login to nfuonline.com and NFU newsletters

Discounts on trailer training, WATO test, Spada and Merlin Entertainment

Have your say and contribute towards the future of British farming!

Follow us on social media

@studentfarmer

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SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN

or visit nfuonline.com/student or call 0370 428 1401

September 2023

13/09/2023 11:06:36

Grow your career with a WCUC degree Warwickshire College and University Centre (WCUC) was launched as a new university centre by Warwickshire College Group in 2021. WCUC will expand its degree level provision, which is already delivered across four colleges in Warwickshire and Worcestershire.

The new university centre follows on from WCG becoming the first college group in the UK to be granted Bachelor degree awarding powers by the Office for Students, alongside the Foundation degree awarding powers already in place.

This includes Royal Leamington Spa College, Rugby College, Moreton Morrell College and Pershore College. Degrees taught at Moreton Morrell continue to be awarded by Coventry University.

• Sustainable Horticultural Technology (Agri-Tech)

• Equine

• Veterinary Nursing

• Canine

• Animal

• Veterinary Physiotherapy

Visit an in person open event to find out more: • Moreton Morrell College // Saturday 23 September, 10am – 2pm • Moreton Morrell College // Saturday 14 October, 10am – 2pm • Pershore College // Saturday 21 October, 10am – 1pm

To book your place, visit:

Powered by

wcuc.ac.uk/degreeopenevents September 2023

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OPEN EVENT

Hadlow College 10 am – 1 pm Saturday 4th November

PRE-REGISTER NOW AT: HADLOW.AC.UK/EVENTS 01732 850551

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