More than 200 young people have put their hands up for Growing Future Farmers’ 2027 sheep and beef intake, but the programme can so far place only about 80, says chief executive Wendy Paul.

“We are seeing a shift in young people leaving school interested in this sector,” she says.

The two-year, on-farm programme takes 16 to 20-year-olds. Paul says the placement gap comes down to a shortage of farm trainers, not interest.

To become a farm trainer, she says patience matters more than farming skill.

“Not everyone can mentor young people and coach people.”

Trainers provide separate accommodation, pay a weekly living allowance and contribute to the programme.

“It truly is farmers giving back to the sector for their future talent pipeline.”

To apply, see more here

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