Students at Writtle College have completed the new regenerative ag course on offer
The term regenerative farming is now a phrase widely used within the agricultural space, perhaps even more so by young farmers hoping to tackle the ever-growing - and ever present - issue of climate change.
As a young person navigating their way through a new era of farming, it is a phrase you cannot now ignore, and at Writtle College, they are supporting those who wish to pursue and learn more about farming this way, having launched the UK's first BSc (Hons) Regenerative Agriculture course.
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On September 8, students celebrated their success at a well-attended graduation ceremony - they are the first people in the country to complete the qualification, which was launched by Writtle University College in 2020.
The course responds to the importance and immediacy of the challenges facing global agriculture.
Dr Anya Perera from Writtle University College said: "Our students are the thought-leaders of the future. They take a progressive approach to farming production systems that encompasses sustainable practice and responds to political, economic and scientific change."
A number of distinguished guests, family, friends and honorary degree recipients, including former asylum seeker and organic growing advocate Kuda Chimbudzi came to celebrate those who have completed this ‘pioneering' course.
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Jimmy Doherty, farmer and TV presenter, also took part in the ceremony, championing his role as the University College's Chancellor.
In a speech to the students, he said: "The world needs people like you - graduates who are ready to shape our future. Whichever path you choose to take, I have no doubt you will continue to make the world a better place, both personally and professionally."
Regenerative agriculture students completed their course with an understanding of farm-level practices, the key principles of sustainability, the need for resilient food chains and the importance of mitigating the impact of climate change.
A select number of students also received personal recognition, including Henry Etherington who was presented with the Essex Agricultural Society's Award for the 'Best Agricultural Student' and the Worshipful Company of Farmers' Award for the 'Best Dissertation in the Agricultural Department'.
Henry said: "I would like to extend my congratulations to all my fellow graduates and express my gratitude to the agricultural and wider land-based studies team at Writtle University College.
"This team has successfully designed a course that addresses the pressing issues in national and global agriculture, both present and future. My experiences at Writtle have profoundly influenced my perspective on the agricultural industry and will undoubtedly continue to shape the decisions I make, as well as those of my fellow graduates, throughout our careers."
