Young Farmers and Careers

Only 22 per cent of people say they would consider a job in farming or food production, a new study has found

Megan Watkins, 22, grew up on her family farm in Craswall, Herefordshire, where they breed pedigree Texel sheep and Limousin cattle. She graduated in 2021 from Harper Adams University and recently joined Pilgrim’s Pride, in the Dalehead Foods division, as lamb supply chain and procurement coordinator.

Applications for this year’s Countryside Stewardship Scheme have been opened by the Rural Payments Agency.

Paul and Becky Fenton, dairy farming tenants of Cheshire County Council, have realised their dream of buying their own farm.

Stuart Mitchell, 29, is a head partner of a 440-hectare mixed family farm in the Scottish borders, running cattle, deer and arable enterprises.

Hands-on experience has inspired secondary schools to promote farming as a rewarding career to their pupils. Caroline Stocks finds out more about how a slow and steady approach is paying dividends.

Hannah Slim, 19, grew up on the outskirts of Birmingham and is a former vegan. She is currently studying conservation and environmental management at Harper Adams University.

With Open Farm Sunday taking place later this year, farmers have a chance to make a significant difference in educating the public and offering an on-farm experience to remember. Sarah Todd looks at the benefits.

NFU Cymru has launched a search for enthusiastic young farmers keen to have their say on the future of farming in Wales