TOM BRADSHAW NSch 2011
2021 SCHOLARS FINALLY GET TO MEET! Finally, after a year of Covid induced virtual meetings, the Nuffield 2021 Scholars met in person, along with Chris, Mike and Poey for a trip to the Mendips! Jen Hunter NSch and Andy Wear welcomed us at Fernhill farm which provided the perfect accommodation for our group and served as a base for our agricultural exploration of the region. First up was a visit to Thatchers Cider which began with an inspiring talk from Martin Thatcher outlining the company’s story past to present. After seeing cider making in action and mesmerising robotic bottling systems, it was time for tasting- a crucial part of understanding the business! Cider skilled honed, the group travelled to Alvis brothers farm to be hosted by Jonny and family. A diverse business that is consistently striving to be future focused, the group watched milking in action in the rotary milking parlor and debated future intake into the industry. Our evening activity delved into the world of agricultural commodities with Ian Tremain which included an excellent trading game - do contact Ian for a set of playing cards if you want to find out more (an excellent Christmas present!).
The final morning gave an opportunity to get to know our hosts better with a tour of Fernhill farm which specialises in producing wool using regenerative agriculture practices. After watching professionals in action, several of the group successfully volunteered to try hand shearing sheep under supervision from Andy. The wool was then put to good use as the group attempted tuffet weaving overseen by Fizz, the gorgeous, bearded collie. As Jen remarked “it’s amazing how you can give people the same tools and materials and have such a range of outputs!”. Thanks to all for a fantastic few days with Nuffield Scholars past and present, looking forward to seeing what comes next for the 2021 group! Aisla Jones
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