Inspiring next generation of sheep farmers

NSA Next Generation and Innovation for Agriculture have teamed up for the third year running to present a ‘Getting on the sheep farming ladder’ open day for young people with a passion for the sheep sector.

This year the event is moving to the north of England, to be held on Wednesday 28th October at Newton Rigg College, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0AH, and promises to be even more interactive than previous years.

The format will be slightly different, kicking off with guest speakers and then followed by practical work-stations through the late morning and afternoon. Attendees will be able to decide which stations they go to, to pick up specific skills relevant to the path they want to take in sheep farming.

Joanne Briggs, NSA Communications Manager, says: “The event is aimed at anyone with an enthusiasm for the sheep sector and, with everything from nutrition to health included within the work stations, there will be something for everyone. It will also be a unique opportunity to meet people with similar interests and learn from them too. So whether you have been born onto a family farm or are a new entrant, I am sure it will be a good way to spend the day.”

Thanks to the generous support of Caltech Crystalyx, there will also be the optional extra for attendees to complete the day at the company’s nearby facilities, where a factory tour and hearty meal will be provided. This will deliver an insight into Caltech Crystalyx’s UK-wide set-up, as well as providing a light-hearted and social way to finish the day.

Charlotte Johnston, Innovation for Agriculture Technical Specialist for Livestock, continues: “This event is completely free for people to attend, and we’re delighted to be able to offer the added-extra of further technical information and entertainment through the generous support of Caltech. We have had excellent feedback from these events in the past, with attendees enjoying the social elements and the knowledge transfer, and we hope to have increased those opportunities further still this year.”

The event is free to attend but pre-registration is required at http://www.innovationforagriculture.org.uk/events. It will run from 10.30am to 3.45pm, with registration from 10am and lunch included. The optional extra of carrying on for the Caltech Crystalx element of the day is also free; details available on the website.

The application window for the 2016 NSA Next Generation Ambassador Group will be open on the day, for one month only. Ambassadors from the 2014 and 2015 groups will be on hand to share their experiences of being part of the group, which sees up to 12 individuals each year given technical training and personal development relevant to the running of their sheep businesses.