STUDENT FARMER - SEPTEMBER 2025

SAFETY FIRST

Tips for staying safe on ATVs and the farmyard p18

ONE LONG SUMMER

One young farmer chases the sun to New Zealand p20

CHILL OUT

10 ways to support your mental health this winter p14

September 2025

REAPING THE REWARDS Arable farmer and grape grower Hannah Buisman is preparing for her most important harvest to-date p04

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FUTURE FARMING LEADERS

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Contents

CONTENTS PUBLISHED BY:

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FROM VINE TO WINE Grape grower Hannah Buisman prepares for her most important harvest yet

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MAKE THE TIME FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Rosie Finney urges farmers to talk more about how they really feel

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10 WAYS... to look after your mental health in winter

NFU, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ

EDITOR:

Joanna Thomson Joanna.Thomson @nfu.org.uk

WORDS BY:

Joanna Thomson, Gary Young, Rosie Finney, Joe Rhodes, Thomas Saunders, Nat Watkins, Ross Wilson

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SAFETY FROM GROUND UP Top tips around overhead power cables

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DRIVING HOME MESSAGE How to stay safe on ATVs and in the farmyard

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ONE LONG SUMMER Jack Meadows on his season harvesting maize in New Zealand

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THINGS TO DO...

What’s on near you

DESIGNED BY:

John Cottle

COVER IMAGE BY:

John Cottle

TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT:

Scott Keyes scott.keyes@nfu.org.uk

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COMPETITION Win a set of Carhartt clothing worth £250+

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A MISSED OPPORTUNITY Why agriculture deserves more space on the national curriculum

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COULD WE SPONSOR YOUR DISSERTATION? Find out how

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IT’S FREE YOU SAY? NFU Student & Young Farmer membership

This feels familiar

Read all past editions of Student Farmer at: issuu.com/studentfarmer

A new face this issue as we say goodbye and thanks very much to Beth for her hard work on the title. It’s a pleasure to come on board, and from chatting to a number of you during the past few months, I can tell working on Student Farmer is going to be great fun.

When it comes to food and farming, I’m not a total newbie… you’ll be relieved to hear. I used to edit a title for the meat industry, working with many of the processors further up your supply chains, so I hope my sector knowledge will come in handy. I know the difference between my SPP and SFI, but you’ll need to bear with me while I get to know my hay from haylage and straw from silage.

In the meantime, we have a fantastic September edition of the magazine for you.

Arable farmers Hannah Buisman and Jack Meadows discuss this year’s harvest. While Jack has finished his third successive season harvesting maize, having spent last winter in New Zealand, Hannah is on the eve of picking a crop of grapes that will produce her farm’s first saleable bottle of wine.

As we move into the colder, darker months of the year, the focus is all about staying alert and safe. We’ve got the latest from the National Grid on power line safety, and tips for preventing accidents when using ATVs. Mental health is just as important as physical health, as Rosie Finney’s pause for thought also underlines.

Having reported on it for several years, I know the food industry is made up of some of the most inspiring, hard-working people out there, and so I couldn’t be happier to be back in the editor’s chair, writing about this new but very familiar sector.

Joanna Thomson, Editor, Student Farmer September 2025

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Viticulture

FROM VINE TO WINE

COVER STORY

We catch up with 2022 SYFAP ambassador and grape grower Hannah Buisman as she prepares for her most important harvest to-date John Cottle

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W

hen Hannah Buisman returned from university to her family farm in 2021, she became frustrated by the wariness within the cereal and arable sector, which she felt was stunting growth and ignoring opportunity.

“When I went back to the farm, I said to my dad, ‘let’s grow quinoa, let’s grow buckwheat, let’s grow something random’.

His answer was always the same: ‘What if it doesn’t work and we lose all that potential income?’.

“We’d gotten ourselves onto a hamster wheel, and it was scary to think about stepping off.”

That’s when the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) came along, and Hannah saw a chance to use the funding to do something different. In 2022, the family planted the first of their vines and today, Hannah and fiancé Zack co-manage a 15-acre vineyard, growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir Précose.

Planting a vineyard in England sounds unusual, but, as Hannah insists, the move into viticulture was rooted in both market demand and the soil itself. Lockley Farm’s southernly location in Welwyn, just outside of London, has proven to be a viable zone for grape cultivation. The family needed a crop better adapted to the changing environment, and so grapes seemed like a natural choice.

That’s not to say that moving into grapes from cereals has come naturally. Hannah acknowledges the hard work (and a bit of luck) that is involved in a project like this.

“If I had to, I would certainly do it again, but I would say to anyone interested in starting a vineyard – do not take it likely.

It is not an easy project; there is a serious

Viticulture amount of manual labour involved and its very expensive,” she explains.

“Do not assume that just because you grow a crop that you will know how to grow a vine, because we had no clue what we were doing and have leaned heavily on our consultants, who have shaped this vineyard.”

Not every farm that wants to grow a vineyard will be able to due to financial reasons or site restrictions, but Hannah says there are options out there for people who want to take the leap.

“The vineyard has given us a new vitality and energy, a realisation that we have so much potential in the arable side of our business too” “With the right data and the right consultants behind you, I would absolutely recommend it for businesses in a similar situation, but what I would say is to do your research. Also, be sure to invest in knowledge elsewhere because it can be a very expensive mistake.”

Within the past 10 years, grape growing for wine production has grown by 123% in the UK, cementing itself as a new and booming sector. In an emerging market, it is to be expected that businesses will make mistakes – but in viticulture, when things go wrong, it can go very wrong, as Hannah found out.

She quite literally heard through the grapevine that another grower, who planted their vines seven years ago,

was still not producing any grapes; and, because they didn’t invest early on in their venture, they had to dig up the whole vineyard and start again.

The risk of seeing no return on her investment came with significant challenges – and that's actly where the SFI would come in handy.

“I really pushed for us to use the SFI,” Hannah says. “It has given us some time out and the vineyard is now at its expenditure dip, so it couldn’t be a better time for us to not have the inputs and volatility of arable. The SFI also allows us to rest our soil and gives us time to research what our next products are going to be.

“We’ve talked about growing barley for whiskey or beer, and my mum loves the idea of lavender fields. We’ve got a lot of ideas.”

Hannah says the vineyard has been one of the best things to have happened to the business: “It has given us a new vitality and energy, a realisation that we have so much potential in the arable side of our business too.”

Building a brand

When we spoke to Hannah at the end of August, she and the team at Lokkelebery Vineyard were only weeks away from harvest. This is their second harvest, but more importantly, the first in which the fruit of their labour will become a saleable product.

Hannah decided early on that she wanted to make her own produce instead of selling the crop wholesale to other producers. That’s why she’s working with a winery called The Grange, in Hampshire to produce her product.

“Once the grapes are ready to be picked, they are harvested and put on a lorry to deliver them to the winery, where they’ll be pressed and fermented,” Hannah explained. “Head winemaker Harry and his team will work with us to create our blends and make our wine.”

A lot of the hard work to get the business to where it is today has not only come from organising the logistics, but also developing the Lokkelebery brand that the wine will sell under.

“The challenges we’ve faced haven’t just been with the vines,” Hannah says.

“The whole venture has been an exercise in rebranding.

“Since we launched, we’ve taken on marketing staff and learned a lot of new skills. I’ve had to learn a lot about building a brand. I feel like some of it is intuitive though. We’re authentic, we’re not trying to be something we’re not and our audience thanks us for it. Social media has September 2025

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Viticulture

“I want to get us to the point where we’re self-sufficient, so that we’re true advocates of our product because we’re eating it ourselves”

been massively important to the venture.

“Again, we’ve found working with consultants to be really beneficial. It means we don’t have any of the financial burdens of bringing this work in house.

Using expertise that is already out there and dropping it where we need it has been essential for us.”

Bridging the gap

Since its launch, Lokkelebery Vineyard has been hosting tours and special events to help raise awareness of its produce amongst the local market. One of which is a ‘wine safari’ where visitors are invited to try wines from around the world through ‘the Lokkelebery lens’. The idea here is that customers get a hint or (quite literally) a flavour for what Hannah’s wine will taste like when it's ready for sale.

The other purpose of these events, for Hannah, is very much about ‘bridging the gap’ between local producers and consumers. Her plan, going forward, is to provide a springboard for producers to get their products in front of the vineyard’s audience.

“We’ve found that people are really intrigued by what we do,” Hannah explained. “We’ve run a range of events this summer that have been a great success, all

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HANNAH’S TOP TIPS FOR EXPLORING YOUR BUSINESS IDEAS •

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If you are just starting out, don’t be afraid to push boundaries. It’s very easy to fall into the done way of doing things. Carve out your own space if you can.

It can be difficult to put your ideas out there, in a way that doesn’t seem like you are being defensive or petulant. Do your research and work on ways to put forward your ideas that avoid stepping on toes and ultimately shows you are thinking about the business.

Ideas don’t need to be extreme. You don’t need to start a venture in an entirely different sector. It may be that you want to introduce some new technology or try a different methodology.

championing local producers, and at these events we’ve provided local produce.

“We had a platter made up of charcuterie from a local pig processor, British cheese, rapeseed oil from Bedfordshire, balsamic vinegar from Devon – and the boards themselves were made from wood from the farm by my fiancé Zack. There wasn’t anything on that board that wasn’t produced in England, never mind the UK! We even had a chalkboard that stated the food miles, and people loved it.

“This is just the tip of the iceberg of what these events are going to be about, and we’re really excited to develop them further,” she added.

Part of Hannah’s ‘bridging the gap’ manifesto also involves making more direct-to-consumer products, which she plans to sell through the vineyard and its brand.

“One thing that I find absolutely crazy is that we grow barley, oats and beans, and yet I have to go to the supermarket to buy flour. I’ve never eaten any of my own products,” she says. “I want to get us to the point where we’re self-sufficient, so that we’re true advocates of our product because we’re eating it ourselves.

“That’s led me down the path of potentially milling our own wheat, and the idea that we can work on beverages. For example, we planted a number of small

September 2025

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September 2025

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Viticulture

orchards because we found that we were buying in a lot of apple juice for our events.

We saw the cost of buying it in and said ‘let’s just produce our own’. Eventually, the idea will be that anything that goes through the vineyard – whether that’s juice or cakes – most of their ingredients will be produced here.”

Supporting young farmers

In 2022, Hannah joined the NFU’s Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Programme, which she says helped her build confidence as a farmer at the helm of a new business venture.

When she joined the programme, she wasn’t long back into farming and was struggling to know where she fit into the family business. “What I loved about the ambassador programme was that I was surrounded by people who were going

UNCORKING CAREERS Want to get into wine? This could be ‘a very good year’, with the UK Wine Education Centre, based at Plumpton College, in East Sussex, keen to raise awareness of the range of careers in the sector and a growing number of specific courses.

Those were to the fore between 12-18 May for the very first National Wine Careers Week, which saw the wine education centre joined by English sparkling wine brand, Nyetimber, Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), WineGB and DrinksUnited to showcase the opportunities. The week was something of a milestone because despite the sector’s momentum, wine is often overlooked as a career path.

Many people simply aren’t aware of the range of roles available and there’s a chance for all sorts of careers that will grow with the industry, from grape growing and winemaking to managing imports, exports, quality control, investment, logistics, marketing, buying, hospitality and more.

“One of the most compelling aspects of the wine industry

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is the diversity of roles that it offers,” explains Brad Greatrix, senior winemaker at Nyetimber.

“Whether you want to work fully outdoors, fully indoors, or a combination of the two, the wine industry has something for you. The same applies for people that want a highly technical role, or a fully creative one; wearing jeans and wellies all day, or sophisticated business attire – the wine industry can cater for all of that.

“In fact, I can’t think of any other sector with such a wide array of opportunities. And from whichever other field someone arrives, there will be transferrable skills that can be brought across. However, I’d be remiss not to mention that the one universally required attribute is a capacity for hard work!”

For inspiring stories from new entrants and key contacts, visit the National Wine Careers Week website at www. winecareersweek.co.uk

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Viticulture

RISE OF THE VINES

“If anything goes wrong, it’s on us.

We can’t blame it on difficult markets like we’re prone to doing.” through the same experience as I was, trying to navigate the same challenges.

“There was a feeling of community, and I really felt like I had found my people.

Starting out in farming can be quite a lonely and isolating place, so it couldn’t have come at a better time for me.”

Hannah’s experience on the ambassadors’ programme has clearly influenced her business values, as she loves the prospect of creating a space for other young farmers or new entrants to the market to explore their business ideas.

“I’d love to set up a micro dairy here,” she explains. “We don’t have any dairy experience, but there are many youngsters out there that want the opportunity, but don’t have the land or the space to make it happen – and it would be great to be involved in that.”

While it’s clear she has plenty of ideas to explore, Hannah’s focus for now is on the vineyard and the upcoming harvest. How is she feeling about it? It’s certainly nervewracking, but ultimately very exciting.

“It makes me very proud indeed to have stepped out of the hamster wheel that we’ve ended up in,” she says. “Some may say that what we’re doing is quite risky, but hopefully it will make the business more resilient. If anything goes wrong, it’s on us. We can’t blame it on difficult markets like we’re prone to doing. We’re taking our destiny into our own hands.”

Student Farmer runs the rule over our fastest-growing sector and how it might be the perfect pairing for all sorts of careers

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hat was England’s fastest growing food crop of the past ten years, one that now tops our soft fruit tables with a 36% share of the sector in England (strawberries 21%)?

Kudos if you knew it was grapes, and specifically those for winemaking, or viticulture.

Yes, the Romans may have brought the vine and wine-making culture to the UK – but almost 2,000 years later, we’re finally making this industry our own.

The total area under vine in England and Wales now stands at 4,209 hectares, representing a growth rate of 123% in 10 years. Most of that is in the south of the country, but, as the zone suitable for the cultivation of grapes for winemaking in Europe moves northwards as a direct result of climate change, large parts of the UK that were previously unsuitable for viticulture are becoming more viable.

Burgeoning opportunities are anticipated in an industry that already adds more than £10 billion to our economy in Gross Value Added (GVA).

That’s partly because, within two decades, rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves will threaten some of Europe’s wine heartlands. Budburst, flowering and harvest times there are not just arriving earlier each season, and wine quality can be affected if grapes ripen in warmer periods.

Meanwhile the epic scale of production and the regulations that govern European wine-making areas, rules that have long-stressed place, variety and history, mean that producers cannot

simply switch to more climate resilient grapes, or up sticks and move.

Over here, though, it’s a different story, even if the weather in 2024 made for something of a blip.

A few more stats for you – the UK wine industry has grown fourfold since 2000 and during a five-year period between 2018 and 2023, sales of English and Welsh sparkling wine rose 187%, with sales of still wine rising 117%. We totted up our thousandth vineyards a couple of years ago and new wineries are being built every year. The South Downs National Park is one of Europe’s fastestgrowing wine regions, with viticulture adding a whopping £24.5 million to the local economy.

The top five grape varieties (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Bacchus and Seyval Blanc) still form the majority of new plantings, but, because of its relative youth, UK growers have more flexibility to future-proof and, during the past decade, they have been planting a wider selection of grapes, including disease-resistant hybrids.

Industry bodies are also working to make sure the sector ‘gets it right’ for the longer term, NIAB (the National Institute of Agricultural Botany) is heading up the Wine Innovation Centre in Kent, focusing R&D on viticulture and oenology, the science and study of wines. Diseaseresistance, vessel choice and its impact on wine character, wine testing, wine chemistry, water use and the benefits of ‘regenerative’ viticulture… all are subjects of research.

Trade body WineGB has developed a comprehensive strategy to grow the industry, amidst keen interest in our wine from consumers, the hospitality sector and exporters. It is developing a consistent narrative to help producers sell their products, and sharing insights on consumer behaviour, yields, best practice and employment. It’s also developing UK ‘wine tourism’, offering a wealth of interesting diversification options, particularly during English Wine Week, in late June.

September 2025

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SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE

10/09/2025 10:18:47

Back British Farming Day

Back British Farming Day Stop the Family Farm Tax campaign is a major focus as NFU meets MPs and peers in annual event to celebrate the true value of farming to rural communities

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he NFU’s Back British Farming Day returned this month, with 2025 marking a decade since the launch of this campaign day, where we work with the public to celebrate British food and farming and to remind politicians of what farming delivers to the nation.

The event drives home to governments of all colours the issues that matter to our members and celebrates the importance of agriculture to rural communities and the economy, shining a light on how our farming sector makes a positive difference to our everyday lives. This year, members of the public nominated our farming heroes, highlighting those who go above and beyond for their own communities.

Each year Back British Farming Day showcases the achievements of the food and farming sector, emphasising the message that British farming is the bedrock of the country’s largest manufacturing sector – food and drink – which is worth £153.2 billion to the economy and supports 4.2 million jobs.

This year, Back British Farming Day was given an extra sense of mission by the NFU’s ongoing campaign to stop the Family Farm Tax. As Student Farmer went to press, dozens of meetings were arranged with MPs and peers of all parties, which took place on Wednesday 10 September. These bespoke meetings with NFU members gave us the

opportunity to explain personally to MPs the impact that the government’s inheritance tax plans would have upon farming businesses and, ahead of the autumn Finance Bill, to discuss alternative options such as those put forward recently by CenTax. Beyond Westminster, every year NFU members and many of our 560,000 farming supporters join the campaign by sharing content on social media.

We created a toolkit of resources for members to download from NFUonline. You can see the coverage on NFU social media channels using the hashtag #BackBritishFarmingDay. This public show of support builds national awareness of our campaign and its iconic wheatsheaf pin badge, an emblem of strength and unity created by the NFU. This support has been underlined with a survey commissioned by the NFU and released for Back British Farming Day. Once again Britain’s farmers and growers were named as one of the public’s most favoured and valued professions – coming second only to nursing.

The annual Farmer Favourability Survey carried out by OnePoll questioned 2,000 people in England and Wales about their perceptions of British farming – and with record results. It reported 73% of the public have a favourable view of farmers and growers, up from 69% in 2022, recognising how hard they work through rain and shine to produce food for the nation.

Of those surveyed, 89% of people agreed that British farms should grow as much food as they can to provide national food security – echoing the Labour government’s manifesto statement that food security is national security – and 86% agreed that British farmers play a key role in protecting and enhancing the British countryside.

In the poll 77% agreed that they trust British food more than the rest of the world and 71% said that British farmers play a vital role in helping the country to combat climate change.

In a new question for 2025, 66% of those surveyed agreed that the government should overturn their decision on increasing inheritance tax on family farms while only 15% disagree. ‘Scrap the Family Farm Tax’ is a message we will pushed home on Back British Farming Day and throughout the Party Conference Season.

September 2025

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Mental health

FEEDING THE NATION, FORGETTING THE FARMER?

Assistant Hatchery Manager and PIP member Rosie Finney calls for a conversation about mental health

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t is no secret that in recent years, British farmers have faced some of the most unprecedented and challenging times seen in decades.

Political change, disease challenges and generational weather events seem to be the things we regularly talk about, but they’re all factors that contribute to the hidden danger that we aren’t so good at talking about. Our own mental health.

Like our physical health, mental health is something we all have, and this too can vary and fluctuate depending on factors in our day-to-day lives. With all the challenges the industry faces, as well as the long hours and often lonely work environment, we shouldn’t be surprised that an NFU study from last year found that more than 25% of farmers say their mental health has changed in recent years.

Farm Safety Foundation research has also shown that 95% of young farmers think mental health is the biggest hidden risk in agriculture. The fact that we are slowly starting to do more research into mental health in agricultural industries shows that we acknowledge there is a problem and helps us to start the conversation about the topic.

By opening up this conversation, we can tackle the challenge of poor mental health in the industry head-on and break down the barriers that stop people talking about how they really feel.

My experience

Some alarming research done by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), found that three people in the UK farming and agricultural sector die by suicide every week. It shows how deep the mental health crisis in agriculture runs and again highlights how poor mental health

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IF YOU NEED HELP

Rosie Finney

touches everyone, myself included.

I lost a good friend, Alec Newlove, in March 2024 to suicide. He was the chairman of Louth Young Farmers’ Club, passionate about both farming and mental health awareness. His death sent shockwaves throughout the rural community in Lincolnshire and across the country, as we didn’t see it coming.

I think if you ask almost any farmer across the UK, they will have a similar story, a friend or friend of a friend, who took their own life. We need to break the stigma about talking about our mental health, it’s okay not to be okay and it is time we said that more.

Alec’s death encouraged me to open up more about how I feel. It can feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders to talk to someone and get your worries and stresses off your chest. Farmers are proud people and there is no shame in seeking help, in fact it can take great courage to share what has been bottled up.

There are charities and contacts that can help you or someone you’re worried about. The NFU website also has a dedicated page to help you find mental health and wellbeing support in your area. There is always help out there; don’t be afraid to ask for it.

FCN (Farming Community Network) 03000 111 999 – 7am to 11pm, 365 days a year Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) yellowwellies.org Papyrus – prevention of young suicide 0800 068 4141 / 88247 RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institute) 0800 188 444 – 24/7 Shout Text ‘Hawkstone’ to 85258 – 24/7 The DPJ Foundation 0800 5874 262 – 24/7

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Mental health

“I lost a good friend, Alec Newlove, in March 2024 to suicide. He was the chairman of Louth Young Farmers’ Club, passionate about both farming and mental health awareness. His death sent shockwaves throughout the rural community in Lincolnshire and across the country, as we didn’t see it coming.”

Alec Newlove, a much-missed friend

What can we change?

We must keep talking about mental health.

The only way we can break down the barriers and end the stigma is by talking and making these conversations normal. It might not be the conversation for Sunday lunch with the family, but the farming lifestyle can be so hectic that we very rarely ask people how they are really feeling.

When asking how someone is, we’re all used to saying or hearing the pleasantries of ‘I’m fine’ or ‘I’m good’, but mental

health charities are encouraging people to ask that question twice, as people are a lot more willing to reveal how they really feel.

That small act may be the thing that allows someone to acknowledge and share their thoughts.

We take physical health seriously, with requirements for first aid training in businesses and workplaces, to keep staff safe. It’s time that we treated mental health with the same importance. I have done my mental health first aid training course twice. The course provides skills and knowledge to spot the signs and symptoms of when someone is struggling with their mental health and how to signpost them to the appropriate help.

If someone had a cut on their arm, we

would bandage them up and help them get better, so why do we not yet take the same approach with someone when they are suffering with their mental health? Through time, we can and must change that.

Farm Safety Foundation research found that aspects of the farming culture such as working long hours and rarely leaving the farm, can be associated with deteriorating mental and physical wellbeing. One small change we can all make is to take more time for ourselves and to be aware of both our mental and physical health, which are closely linked. It’s important to take time each week to get away from work and the farm, even for a cup of tea and a chat with a friend, to play your favourite sport or even for a well-deserved holiday.

September 2025

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10 ways...

SLEEP LIKE A BOSS

Sleep is your superpower. A solid bedtime routine helps your brain reset and balances your mood.

Ditch the screens before bed, keep your sleep space chill and stick to a regular schedule.

HYDRATE LIKE A HERO

It’s easy to forget water when it’s cold out. But staying hydrated boosts energy and focus. Move away from the sugar-packed, caffeinated beverages – water is the winner!

GET COSY

MOVE YOUR BODY, CLEAR YOUR MIND

Being cold can drag you down.

If heating costs are a worry, layer up – blankets, thermals, and hot water bottles. Sip warm drinks and snuggle in. Staying warm helps your body and brain stay happy.

Cold weather doesn’t mean you have to hibernate. Get to the gym, try a farm run or even a brisk walk with your mates – movement is mood magic.

TO LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH THIS WINTER EAT WELL FEEL WELL

Your tractor needs the right fuel and so do YOU! Food fuels your mood. Eating well isn’t just healthy, it’s fun, social and satisfying.

YOU’RE THE SPARK. LIGHT IT UP

Light boxes or sunrise alarm clocks can work wonders to mimic natural light and can boost your mood. It’s not a onesize-fits-all fix, but worth a try if those winter blues hit hard.

JUST DO IT

Winter’s a great time to kick off a project. Go running, get crafty, sort your wardrobe, or try a new podcast. Set a goal now – wish it, plan it and do it – you will feel proud and productive.

By Stephanie Berkeley, Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) To learn more about mental wellbeing visit www.yellowwellies.org

STAY SOCIAL

Socialising is a mood booster. Plan fun stuff to look forward to, bonfire nights, YFC events or even a Tractor Run. And don’t underestimate the power of pets - your own or someone else’s - furry friends are fantastic for mental health.

GIVE BACK

Kindness is the real flex – your time, your words or your presence – giving back warms the heart so volunteer, fundraise or just carry out a random act of kindness.

LOOK OUT... FOR OTHERS

Wellbeing isn’t just about you so check in on your mates, neighbours or anyone who might be struggling. A simple text, call or invite can make a huge difference.

September 2025

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Free Bootcamp Backs Farm Diversification Farmers looking to boost profits and strengthen their businesses for the future are invited to join a new free* Skills Bootcamp in Farm Diversification, launched by Reaseheath College and University Centre.

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The 10-week programme, which starts on October 2nd, 2025 is designed for farmers and rural entrepreneurs keen to explore new income streams, from processing their own dairy or meat to creating farm-branded products or selling directly to consumers.

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Reaseheath’s Assistant Principal for Land-based and Sustainability, Iain Clarke, said the programme responds to the pressures facing traditional farm businesses.

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September 2025

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Practical Degrees for Passionate Careers Benefits of studying with WCUC include: Industry Partnership

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September 2025

10/09/2025 10:18:54

Safety from the ground up FARM SAFETY CHECKLIST :

Don't forget the dangers of overhead power cables

•

when working on a farm – and memorise these simple tips which could keep you safe if the worst happens

W

ith at least one overhead power line strike every day across the UK, we hear from Student Farmer magazine sponsor, Northern Powergrid, as they share potentially life-saving information to ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ and avoid the electricity network.

Whether it’s engaging with young and student farmers, first-generation or third-generation farmers, the electricity distribution network operator plays a role in helping to keep people safe and prevent agricultural accidents.

Cables on wooden poles are a common sight across the rural landscape, helping to distribute electricity to millions of people living in nearby villages, towns and cities.

Northern Powergrid’s campaign slogan ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ encourages farmers to stop, look up, and remember that all electricity cables are live.

Gareth Pearson, Northern Powergrid’s

Director of Health, Safety and Training explains more.

“Cables can carry up to 132,000 volts, so making contact, or even coming too close, is extremely dangerous and electric shock can cause serious injury or death,” he warns.

“As harvest is a busy time for farmers, often working long hours with early starts and late finishes, anyone working on a farm should understand the dangers of electricity and remember to ‘Look Up It’s Live!’.

“It’s so easy to misjudge heights and distances, especially when tired or operating farm machinery in poor light or at dusk or dawn.”

Safety first

“As a young or student farmer, we encourage you to think about safety first before you do anything; especially if you’re driving a farm vehicle that could touch the power network.

LOOK UP IT'S LIVE! CALL 105: •

• • • • •

If you, or a fellow student, accidentally hits the power network in a farm vehicle, and it’s safe to do so, drive well clear and call 105 – the emergency phone number to report an overhead power line strike. No matter where you are in the country, if you call 105, you will be directed to your nearest electricity distribution network operator for your area.

Use What3Words to share your exact location.

If it is not safe to drive clear, stay in the cab, call 105 and warn others to stay away.

If there is a fire, jump well clear, ensuring you do not contact the ground and the vehicle at the same time.

Take leaping strides so that one foot is always off the ground and you do not conduct the electricity, to avoid electrocution.

If you need emergency, fire, or medical assistance, dial 999.

• • •

•

Learn how to do a risk assessment before using farming equipment.

Visually inspect the area for overhead power lines.

Check clearance heights.

Ensure telescopic handlers are retracted and kept close to the ground when lowering grain tank lids and using sprayers with horizontally folding booms.

Never fold vertical sprayer booms on the move.

“Always carry out a risk assessment, particularly if you’re not familiar with the land or vehicle, and don’t know where power cables and poles are.

“Make sure you and your fellow students know what to do if you accidentally strike an overhead power line or cable in a field, or on country roads.

“Our ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ campaign helps to spread the safety message and our ‘Working together with agriculture to save lives’ brochure, endorsed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), provides diagrams and information on how to safely assess your land. It encourages you to know the maximum height and vertical reach of machines, the routes of power lines in your area, and when moving equipment to follow practical advice beforehand.

“By putting safety measures in place, we can all work together to reduce the risks of accidents and save lives.”

To download Northern Powergrid’s free Look Up It’s Live! safety information or to request a free farm safety pack visit www.northernpowergrid.com/safety.

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Farm safety

COVER STORY

Full throttle for safety ATV accidents are one of the highest causes of fatalities within agriculture. Here’s a reminder of the importance of wearing a helmet and staying safe.

I

n the recording year 2024/25, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported 27 fatalities in agriculture, forestry and fishing, with seven being connected to the use of ATVs. Additionally, two of these ATV fatalities involved children.

In the past five years, 21 lives have been lost in agriculture due to ATV-related incidents, with, on average, four deaths per year. Nobody sets out to have an accident

and we cannot predict when one will occur, so it is essential to put safety first.

What does the legislation say?

Safety around ATV use is mainly governed by the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, within the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

The act states that operators should have training in the use of the work equipment or machine, and that

appropriate PPE or preventative measures should be taken to prevent and manage reasonable hazards involved with the use of the equipment or machine.

Therefore, it is not only good practice to wear a helmet, participate in training, undertake vehicle checks and have a single rider, but it is also lawful.

#RideSmartFarmSafe

To raise awareness of ATV safety and

REMEMBER THESE FOUR MESSAGES:

A

Always wear a helmet

It is a requirement for employers to provide and ensure the use of appropriate PPE to staff.

For NFU members, see the NFU Spada offer on protective helmets.

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T

Training

It is essential that anyone using an ATV has completed the training and is competent in its use. Employers are legally obliged to ensure that workers receive proper training and are safe to use them.

V

Vehicle checks

Operating vehicles off-road puts extra strain on equipment, making it vital to perform routine safety inspections and upkeep as outlined by the manufacturer.

S

Single rider

The extended seat on a standard sit-astride ATV is designed to let the rider move their body forward or backward to adapt to varying terrain.

It is not intended for carrying additional passengers.

There should only ever be one rider when using a sit-astride ATV.

September 2025

10/09/2025 13:14:18

Farm safety

ECKS MAINTENANCE CHpreride It’s important to carry out checks, which should include:

Tyre pressure

s ATVs typically run on low pressure and psi), (usually between 2–7 7 even a slight variation of 1 psi (0.0 and dling han ect aff can kg/cm2) ge stability. Always use a pressure gau . ings read low for specifically designed

Brakes and throttle

Make sure the brakes stop the vehicle safely and in a straight s line, and that the throttle respond ring stee the ter mat no y smoothl e angle. In agricultural settings, brak kly, quic out r components can wea so they require proper servicing and timely adjustments.

highlight simple steps you can take to help reduce the likelihood of an accident, the NFU has joined forces with NFU Cymru, NFU Scotland, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, and the Welsh Farm Safety Partnership to ensure a unified voice and message across the UK – #RideSmartFarmSafe. You can read the advice in the box on the left.

What about under 16s?

The Prevention of Accidents to Children in Agriculture Regulations 1998 also applies to ATVs. Under these regulations it is illegal for a child under the age of 13 to travel or operate a tractor or self-propelled agricultural machine, which includes ATVs. When a child turns 13, parts of this regulation are lifted. The child is allowed, with appropriate training, to operate a low-powered child-sized ATV. Some ATVs may have additional age restrictions, cited in the operator’s manual and these are often visible on the ATV. Insurance providers may also have their own

TAKE 5 TO STAY ALIVE Follow a simple step that could save a life

A

t the end of the day, we all want to go home to our loved ones, and we want our loved ones to return.

With almost 600 reported incidents on farms last year, farm safety is more important than ever.

That powerful reminder underpins our long-running campaign: ‘Take 5 to Stay Alive’. The message is simple, before starting any task on the farm, take just five minutes. Take five minutes to pause, to think, and to take care of your physical and mental wellbeing. It could make all the difference. Whether it’s checking machinery, preparing for livestock handling, or simply taking a breather during a hectic day, those five minutes can help you identify risks, prevent accidents, and protect your mental health. It’s a small habit with a potentially life-saving impact.

to do the same. It might be as simple as checking over your machinery before use, wearing a helmet on your ATV, or reaching out to a neighbour for support. Whatever you choose every small action counts.

You can submit your pledge via NFUonline.com/take5pledge/ or share it on social media using the hashtag #Take5StayAlive. Let’s inspire each other by showing what proactive safety looks like in real life.

A message from NFU Deputy President David Exwood:

As workloads increase and the to-do list lengthens, it’s easy to push on without stopping. But exhaustion is dangerous.

We’re encouraging members to use the ‘Take 5’ approach as a cue to build in regular breaks. Use that time to reflect, recharge and reconnect, with yourself and those around you. Take five minutes to check in on how you’re feeling. Take five minutes to ask a colleague if they’re okay. These short moments can foster a safer, more supportive environment for everyone on the farm.

“Farming is an incredibly rewarding way of life, but it’s also one of the most dangerous sectors to work in.

“Every year, too many lives are lost or changed forever by preventable accidents.

That must change.

“Farm safety isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about making sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.

Tiredness, stress and financial pressures can all lead to risk-taking or cutting corners. A clear head and a culture of safety on your farm can help prevent lifechanging accidents.

“In 2024, nearly a quarter of farmers surveyed by the NFU said their mental health had changed in the past year. That’s why looking after your physical and mental health is so important.

“Take five minutes today to think about how you can improve safety on your farm.

It could save a life, including your own.”

Make your farm safety pledge

You matter

A timely reminder to take a pause

At the June Council meeting, NFU Council members were asked to make a personal pledge, one thing they would commit to doing to improve safety on their own farm.

Now, we’re inviting you and your family

Remember, taking just five minutes could save a life – maybe even your own. Farm safety starts with you. Take 5 to Stay Alive and look after yourself and others. You matter.

September 2025

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Harvest

COVER STORY

ONE LONG SUMMER One young farmer has spent three successive seasons harvesting maize and other grains.

Joanna Thomson finds out more.

John Cottle

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September 2025

10/09/2025 13:14:56

Harvest

L

ife of late for farmer Jack Meadows has been one perpetual summer – but that’s not to say he’s had a holiday.

Early last year, Jack was scrolling on social media when he spotted a post from a recruitment agency looking for agricultural workers; and when he saw their employers were based in New Zealand, he knew this was the opportunity he’d been waiting for.

For years Jack had been telling his mates that he would “get out there” and see one of the ‘big three’ – America, Australia and New Zealand. So, after finishing up the harvest on his family farm near Stratfordupon-Avon, Jack jumped on a plane to the other side of the world and spent the latter months of the year doing contract work on arable farms, under the winter sun.

“When I was younger, all I wanted to do was farm. To be honest, I still don’t want to do anything else. The hard times can be really challenging, but it’s all part of the process.”

Speaking about his adventures, it’s clear the bright weather has rubbed off on him as he beams from ear to ear. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” he says. “It was a real opportunity to go and see the world, and to see how they do things out there.”

The Kiwi approach

Jack’s partner farms were based on New Zealand’s North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui), which is renowned for its dairy, sheep and beef farming – as well as being home to an abundance of vineyards and fruit farms. Having worked with his father and grandfather on an 800-acre arable farm, mainly growing wheat, barley and oilseed rape, Jack was keen to learn the Kiwi approach to crops.

“What I found really interesting was how they would take a grass cut for silage off in September/October before breaking it up to plant their maize. They would then replant the grass back after silaging in March,” he explains.

“It’s a different approach to what we use. Sometimes here in the UK, it is possible to use an over-winter cover crop before maize, but very often a field gets left fallow and unproductive.”

Working mainly on grass and maize, Jack absorbed as much as he could from the experience and now has several bright ideas to apply to the family farm.

“It got me thinking about how we use cover crops,” he explained. “What we’ve found is that, with oilseed rape, if you plant it at the start of July then we tend to avoid the worst effects of flea beetles.

They’re one of the big killers of oilseed rape, so it’s important to miss their period of high activity. However, there’s an obvious issue with this plan; planting in July is tricky as most years you haven’t even started harvest, and you need a fallow field to plant rape.

“I like the idea of having grass on the field that you can profit off, taking a cut for silage or hay or whatever you want, and then breaking it up and getting the oilseed rape in the ground for next year. It means, in theory, that we should have a better crop and we won’t need to leave the fields fallow, not producing any money.

“I’m yet to get Dad on board with the idea, so it might stay a plan for a while,” he laughs. “We’ll see how it ends up.”

A challenging harvest

While skies were blue down under, the UK experienced a particularly wet winter. Jack returned home in mid-April to find that some of their winter crops had stunted in their growth or died off altogether.

Spring and summer couldn’t provide any solace. Hot, dry weather – which led to drought and even wildfires for some parts

of the UK – has had a significant impact on their latest harvest yields.

Moisture in the ground from the wet winter months burnt off so quickly over the spring that, in Jack’s words, “it’s been a struggle to grow anything”.

When I spoke to Jack, he and his family had just finished up in the field for the season, and the outlook for this winter and next year remains uncertain.

“Grass crops that dairy need for sileage have been particularly affected,” Jack explains. “I’ve heard some businesses are about 30-40% down on what they should be at this time of year, which is quite substantial. How they are going to make up the difference for this winter… I don’t know.”

Their shed, Jack says, is also looking a little bare. “It’s a third full – and that includes the machinery parked in there,” he jokes with a grimace. Jack estimates that they are down 50% on straw yields and about 60% down on grain, compared to last year.

Many arable farmers across the UK have found themselves in a similar, tricky position. The latest data from AHDB suggests considerable variability in yields across the country, within regions and even farms. Commenting at the end of August, NFU Crops Board Chair Jamie Burrows said it had been “an extremely challenging harvest… with some seeing better-than-expected yields, while others are facing significant drops, which will hit cashflows and put substantial financial September 2025

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Harvest

GET SUPPORT IF YOU’VE BEEN AFFECTED BY DRY WEATHER The Addington Fund has launched a 2025 dry weather emergency grant, with input from the NFU, for farmers struggling to feed stock due to the ongoing drought. They may be able to help with a one-off grant or supply of feed/fodder or straw to help prevent animals from suffering from lack of feed or bedding.

If you are unsure, please talk to them about your particular situation by calling 01926 620135. To apply for help, complete and return Addington's application form or email enquires@addingtonfund.org.uk and a form will be sent in the post.

pressure on their businesses”.

However, despite the challenges, it’s clear the bad weather hasn’t dampened Jack’s optimism, as he says, smiling: “We’ll plant the crops and hope that the weather comes right, as we always do.”

Part of the process

Much of Jack’s confidence comes, he says, from his passion for farming. “I’ve never really thought of an alternative [to farming],” he explains.

“When I was younger, all I wanted to do was farm. To be honest, I still don’t want to do anything else. The hard times can be really challenging, but it’s all part of the process.

“A lot of my friends outside of the sector speak about how great their jobs are, that they have weekends off and that they get to go places with work. I think that’s great, but it still isn’t enough to

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“A lot of my friends outside of the sector speak about how great their jobs are, that they have weekends off and that they get to go places with work. I think that’s great, but it still isn’t enough to tempt me to go and do an office job.” tempt me to go and do an office job.

“I might be doing more work than they do, at least in hours, but I love it. It’s like they say, ‘if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.’”

That is why Jack throws himself into any task that needs doing on the farm, whether its bailing, combining, mowing or doing maintenance work on machinery.

“I’m the youngest by quite a long way,” he says. “There’s me, my dad, my grandad

and a farm worker – that’s our team.

It means that I get to do a lot of different jobs and help where needed. It also means I’m the tech guy and they rely on me to keep up to date with what’s going on – particularly if there’s a new way to reduce costs.”

One of Jack’s latest projects involved using funding from the Sustainable Farming Incentive to get soil nutrient mapping technology set up on their tractors. Going forwards, the farm shouldn’t need to buy in as much fertiliser, which should, in theory, bring down costs and be better for the environment.

When it comes to future projects, Jack’s sights are set on another season abroad, but he insists that a permanent move there is off the table: “I’m going back to the same farms in New Zealand this winter to do another harvest, because it was so fantastic.

“If we decided as a family to sell up and get a farm out there, I’d move in a heartbeat; but I wouldn’t move there permanently myself. There’s so much for me here in the UK, it would be a lot to leave behind. I’ll stick to another summer out there for now.”

September 2025

10/09/2025 13:15:33

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September 2025

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Diary dates

Things to do...

Looking for something to do in late 2025? NFU

8 - 12 Oct Horse of the Year Show

Graduate Joe Rhodes shares his pick of the top events.

SEPTEMBER 13 – 21 September Open House Festival Locations across London programme.openhouse.org.uk/ 20 – 21 September The National Country Show Live Hylands Park, Chelmsford Tickets from £12 nationalcountryshow.co.uk/

1 Oct Royal Bath & West Dairy Show

27 – 28 September Oasis Live ’25 at Wembley Stadium Wembley Stadium, London Tickets from £74.25 oasisinet.com/

8 – 19 October BFI London Film Festival Venues across London and the UK Tickets on sale on 16 September whatson.bfi.org.uk/

OCTOBER

9 – 25 October London Oktoberfest Events across London Tickets from £10 london-oktoberfest.co.uk/

1 October Royal Bath & West – Dairy Show Bath & West Showground, Somerset Tickets from £20 bathandwest.com/the-dairy-show 3 – 4 October BetMGM Autumn Racing Weekend Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire Tickets from £15 ascot.com/racedays

12 October NFL London Games 2025: Denver Broncos vs New York Jets Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London Tickets from £180 tottenhamhotspurstadium.com/whatson/2025/2025-nfl-london-games/

8 – 12 October Horse of the Year Show NEC Birmingham Tickets from £42 hoys.co.uk/

31 October Duran Duran Manchester Co-op Live Tickets from £87.50 duranduran.com/tour/

8 Nov Lord Mayor's Show

NOVEMBER 1 November Rugby World Cup: South Africa vs Japan Wembley Stadium, London Tickets from £58.95 wembleystadium.com/events/2025/ South-Africa-v-Japan 5 November National Fruit Show Maidstone Exhibition Hall, Kent Event Centre Tickets free, registration required nationalfruitshow.org.uk 5 – 6 November Farm Business Innovation Show NEC Birmingham Tickets free, registration required farmbusinessshow.co.uk/ 8 November Lord Mayor’s Show City of London lordmayorsshow.london/ 8 – 9 November Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show Newark Showground Tickets from £16 newarkvintagetractorshow.com/

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September 2025

10/09/2025 13:15:42

Diary dates 31 Dec New Year’s Fireworks

12 – 13 December Cheltenham Christmas Meeting Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire Tickets from £26 thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/ events-tickets/the-christmas-meeting/

14 – 16 November Cheltenham November Meeting Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire Tickets from £26 thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/ events-tickets/the-novembermeeting/ 23 November Quilter Nations Series: England v Argentina Allianz Stadium, London Tickets from £95 englandrugby.com/

14 - 15 Jan LAMMA

DECEMBER 1 December – 1 January Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, London Tickets available from November hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/ 3 – 18 December Stereophonics Stadium Anthems Tour Venues across the UK Tickets from £75 stereophonics.com/ 11 December – 3 January Paddypower World Darts Championship Alexandra Palace, London pdc.tv/

26 December Boxing Day Racing Aintree Racecourse, Merseyside Tickets from £26 thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree/eventstickets/boxing-day/ 31 December London New Year’s Fireworks Events all over London

JANUARY 7 – 9 January Oxford Real Farming Conference Oxford Examination Schools Tickets from £395 orfc.org.uk/ 14 – 15 January CropTec NEC Birmingham See website for more information croptecshow.com/ 14 – 15 January LAMMA Show NEC Birmingham See website for more information lammashow.com/ 14 - 15 January Low Carbon Agriculture Show NEC Birmingham (co-locating with LAMMA) See website for more information lowcarbonagricultureshow.co.uk September 2025

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We need farmers to take part in paid market research Have your say on the important issues facing farming today. Sign up to our Opinion Harvester panel to take part in online surveys, telephone interviews and focus groups.

Sign up today at www.opinionharvester.com

07487 510407 | hello@fmresearch.co.uk | www.fmresearch.com

Next edition of

Student Farmer out January 2026 Please contact Scott Keyes on 07917 909 530 or email Scott.keyes@nfu.org.uk for advertising opportunities DERBYSHIRE LANDSKILLS

(INCORPORATING DERBYSHIRE LAND-BASED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE & OCKBROOK TRAINING SERVICES) Registered Charity No 505745 NPTC City & Guilds Centre No 741174 Telephone or Text 01623 812641/07970415211 Email jackie.twilley@btinternet.com Website www.ockbrooktraining.net & www.derbyshirelandskills.org.uk

PROVIDER OF QUALITY LANDBASED TRAINING SINCE 1975 CITY & GUILDS NPTC CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCE AND LANTRA AWARDS SAFE USE OF PESTICIDES SAFE USE OF CHAINSAWS TRANSPORT OF ANIMALS TRACTOR DRIVING, SHEEP DIPS, VETERINARY MEDICINES, FORKLIFT TRUCK & TELESCOPIC HANDLER, ATV’S. BRUSHCUTTERS/TRIMMERS, BRUSHWOOD CHIPPERS, MOWERS, MOLE CONTROL AND MANY MORE AGRICULTURAL & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION LEGISLATION AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS Enterprise Groups for Arable Crops and Vegetables also available FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT JACKIE TWILLEY REGISTERED WITH LANTRA, CITY & GUILDS, UK RURAL SKILLS, and MEMBERS OF C.D.S. TRAINING

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Stay safe, Stay farming Agriculture is one of the UK’s most hazardous industries.

It doesn’t have to be.

Be proactive and enroll on our free farm safety courses.

Reduce risks and protect everyone on your farm.

Scan the QR code to enroll:

September 2025

10/09/2025 10:19:59

Competition

COVER STORY

Win Carhartt gear worth £250 Long shifts outside can take their toll on your body, but the right gear can make a big difference when it’s built to protect you from the ground up, says Nick Poulson of Carhartt

I

n the field or kneeling in a muddy yard, your body is doing the heavy lifting, so you need to look after it.

When you’re juggling tools, ticking through your lists of tasks and dodging bad weather, it’s easy to ignore the quieter risks; the strain building in your knees or the damage the sun’s doing to your skin. These hazards aren’t dramatic but they can be dangerous and catch up with you over time.

debris digging in. The best ones won’t feel bulky either, so they won’t mess with your movement when you’re in tight spots.

Carhartt’s Interoperable Kneepads are a great pick. Made from light but tough polyethylene foam, they flex with you and slot neatly into any work trousers that have kneepad pockets, taking the pressure off without slowing you down. They also meet EN 14404-4:2024 so they’re tested for real-world trade work.

Knees take a beating

Hot and hazardous

Working in agriculture means kneeling, crouching and crawling into all sorts of awkward spaces – and it’s more than just discomfort, it’s long-term risk.

Knee bursitis, cartilage wear and ligament strain are all common in physical jobs. For young people, it can be tempting to shrug off any aches and pains, but those small injuries add up and are often completely avoidable.

Wearing lightweight, quality kneepads is a simple win. A good set will spread pressure, reduce impact and stop sharp

Anyone working outside is naturally exposed to more UV radiation than indoor workers. That means a higher risk of sunburn, heat stress and general wear and tear. UV rays don’t need a heatwave or a bright blue sky to hurt you either; in the

UK, they are strong enough to cause harm from March through to October, even on cloudy days.

Sunburn is painful but short-lived.

Prolonged exposure to UV, however, can cause long-term skin damage and raise your risk of skin cancer.

The good news is that it’s a hazard you can easily manage. Hydration and high-SPF sunscreen are a must, but clothing does most of the hard work. Not all clothing protects you from the sun.

A trusty cotton T-shirt might be comfy but offers a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of around five. This means it lets in around 1/5 (20%) of the sun’s UV. Some dark or tightly woven fabrics do block UV better, but they also trap heat. Lighter coloured fabrics that reflect the heat will feel cooler, but unless they’re specially treated, they can let UV rays through.

This is why purpose-built, UV-rated workwear is worth wearing. The Carhartt Force Sun Defender™ range, for example, is rated UPF 40+ which means it blocks around 97.5% of UV rays. It’s built to keep you cool too, with fast-drying fabrics and odour control.

You also need to protect your eyes, especially if you’re near reflective surfaces like glasshouses or working with flying debris. According to the HSE, more than 700 eye injuries were reported in UK workplaces last year. Decent safety glasses that meet EN 166 standards and come with polycarbonate lenses, like those in the Carhartt range, are impactresistant, lightweight and come in a range of lens colours.

Build good habits now

The choices you make early in your career often stick. Building habits around safety and comfort now will set you up for a longer, stronger working life. You’ll work faster and feel better doing it and you’re more likely to still be doing it in ten, 20, 30 years without wincing every time you bend down.

So whether you’re heading into your first site job, taking on summer work, or getting stuck into farm tasks, pack your kit like you’re planning to do this for the long haul. Because if you are, your future self will thank you.

To view the Carhartt range, visit www.carhartt.com

CARHARTT COMPETITION Student Farmer has two sets of Carhartt jackets, T-shirts, caps and boots worth more than £250 to give away. Send an email with ‘Carhartt’ in the subject line to competitions@nfu.org.uk by 28 November. Please include your name and address.

September 2025

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S&YFAP

CALLING ALL FUTURE LEADERS

S&YF AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME RETURNS FOR 2026

The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme is now a two-year initiative and will open for applications at the end of the year

What is it?

The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme is a two-year-long initiative for NFU members aged 18-30, offering the opportunity to impact the future of the agricultural industry by working with the NFU. It’s a time of extraordinary experiences, building your network and unparalleled opportunities to develop skills, gain national exposure and to represent the NFU in advocacy, media and events.

As an ambassador you will attend national events and support campaigns, engage with MPs and be part of NFU communications online and in print.

The programme has a national and ambassadorial focus, providing experiences that complement personal and leadership development available through local and regional initiatives.

The previous scheme ran for 12 months, but we are extending it to two years to give the ambassadors a chance to attend more events and build meaningful networks.

What does it cost?

All pre-agreed travel expenses will be covered. The NFU will ensure that the programme is free for participants, and that ambassadors are not left out of pocket.

What’s the application criteria?

• • • • • • •

Be an NFU Student & Young Farmer member (it’s free – sign up at NFUonline.com/student).

Aged between 18 and 30 years on 1 January 2026.

Be located in England or Wales.

Have a vested interest in farming and rural affairs.

Available to attend all events once dates are confirmed (see a potential timetable on next page).

Have an interest in speaking to the media or writing content for various NFU publications.

Be committed to promoting the values of inclusivity, equity and diversity in the industry.

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September 2025

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S&YFAP

TIMELINE The NFU will have multiple opportunities and projects such as recording for our new podcast, writing for our e-newsletter and helping to shape conferences and events for young people from within the farming sector. Here’s what a year as a SYF ambassador would look like:

January

Two-day induction at NFU HQ, Stoneleigh Park. Training: How to engage with and speak to the media

February MOO'TRITION

machine The milk vending business p4

BRANCHING OUTng

planni The early days of p10 your diversification

FUTURE FIT FOR THE regenerative Implementing p17 grazing practices

ISLAND LIFE

Meet the farmers of the Isle of Wight p4

Off, cooking, Mike talks Bake e of and the importanc sourcing local p28

STOP THE FAMILY FARM TAX Six actions you can take p21

SUCCESSION

Tips for talking about the future p37

September 2024

January 2025

A love language

RURAL CRIME

The importance of supporting one another p30

NFU Conference at the ICC, Birmingham in year one and London in year two

SYFAP TAKEOVER EDITION to help your mental health p8

“Our regenerative

journey benefits from butchery beca use it allows us to tell each anim al’s story in its entirety to the custo mer” Ed Harrison p10

Get to know your regional team by spending the day visiting the regional hub and spend time with a member of the team

April

Training: Join NFU Education by preparing to speak with school children about farming at a Farmers For School training day

GETTING TO GRIPS IRY WITH DA things milk

All contracts p34

March

BACK BRITISH FARMING DAY

May

Help to shape and take part in a new one-day conference aimed at young farmers and growers

Farming takes over the capital p8

June - July

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Head to London for the day for a tour of the Houses of Parliament, and a visit to the NFU London office to find out how we lobby government for our members. Attend agricultural shows alongside the NFU, supporting a local campaign or event

Summer trip (to be confirmed)

Previous visits have been to The Newt, JCB, The Allerton Project, and Brussels

WHY TAKE PART?

t the younger This is an opportunity to represen UK's biggest generation of farmers within the . farming membership organisation s with ship Create long-standing relation • sectors ing farm like-minded people from all around the country.

Experience new aspects of the • agricultural industry. as it unfolds.

Be at the heart of political change • to become more Support the farming community • ries. inclusive and break down bounda tion Hone communication, presenta • r and networking skills to further you t. professional developmen r workings of Increase your knowledge of the inne • or. the NFU and wider agriculture sect e for national writ to you g blin ena ing Receive train • speak to the publications, present to schools, media and engage with MPs.

•

August

Join our campaigns team with social media filming showcasing the best of British farming Take over the Student Farmer magazine and become Editors in Chief for the day.

September

Back British Farming Day, a chance to lobby MPs. Attend freshers’ fairs to promote the Student & Young Farmer membership category

November

Walk the streets of London at the Lord Mayor’s Show promoting the importance of backing British farming

December

Review of the year, chance to set the agenda for the coming 12 months.

Timetable is subject to change, and events may be removed, rescheduled, or changed. Specific dates will be confirmed at a later stage.

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In his own words...

Ex-SYFAP ambassador Thomas Saunders, now a geography and sport teacher, explains why he joined the NFU's campaign calling for agriculture to get more prominence in the school curriculum

G

rowing up on a mixed sheep and arable farm, the rhythms of agriculture were a normal part of my life. I attended Young Farmers, visited Thrapston Market and enjoyed numerous farm walks. However, I understand that for most young people, this is a world they may never experience.

After studying at Harper Adams University, I chose a career in education and now teach geography and sport at Bedford Greenacre Independent School.

Geography allows me to cover topics including ecosystems, climate change, resource management and urban sprawl, all of which naturally tie into farming and food production.

Yet despite these clear links, agriculture remains largely underrepresented in the national curriculum and that is something that needs to change.

A missed opportunity

While agriculture is touched on in subjects such as geography, biology and food technology, the coverage is often limited, disjointed or lacking relevance. Given the growing importance of sustainability, food security and environmental stewardship, the case for including agriculture more meaningfully in education is stronger than ever. Students today care deeply about the world around them. They are aware of climate issues, health trends and ethical concerns. What they often lack is the deeper understanding of how food is produced, who produces it and how it connects to everything from biodiversity to energy use. We need to bridge that gap. Not by creating an entirely new subject, but by embedding agricultural

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“Geography allows me to cover topics including ecosystems, climate change, resource management and urban sprawl, all of which naturally tie into farming and food production” knowledge throughout existing subjects in a meaningful and consistent way.

Curriculum potential

In geography, there are many opportunities to explore farming systems, global food production systems and the role of technology in modern agriculture.

These topics could be introduced as early as Key Stage 3 or below, not just at GCSE or A Level. Fieldwork could involve visits to local farms and students could subsequently use geographic information systems (GIS) to analyse soil quality or land use, thus developing both practical skills and a real-world understanding of farming’s role in land management.

In food technology, lessons on food

provenance could go beyond a brief mention of where ingredients come from.

Students should learn about seasonality, sustainable food chains and the farm to fork journey. Agri-food careers should also be highlighted from robotics and vertical farming to supply chain logistics. This would help challenge outdated stereotypes of farming and show that agriculture is a forward-thinking and high-tech industry.

In biology, there is potential to discuss plant reproduction, improving crop yields, pest management and genetic engineering in more depth. Lessons could explore soil health, nutrient cycles and climate-resilient crops. All of these topics relate directly to sustainability and the science behind modern agriculture. What is important is ensuring these connections are not

September 2025

10/09/2025 13:17:35

In his own words.. occasional or optional but integrated into how these subjects are taught.

Tom did his bit to highlight the NFU’s asks in the curriculum review by making a video that was shared across social media.

The curiosity is there

Earlier this year, I took a group of Year 10 students to Cornwall for a residential trip. When they visited the shops in the evening I was shocked by what they purchased. They would come out with punnets of raspberries, cartons of milk and packs of chicken. Ten years ago, I am sure my friends would have opted for sweets and chocolate. This generation is different, they are health-conscious, environmentally aware and they genuinely want to make informed choices. What they need is accurate and engaging information to aid their understanding. They want to understand why milk is a good source of nutrition, why local British beef is sustainable and why eating seasonally makes sense.

You can view it here: www.instagram.com/p/ DMR7K9PCZOM/

Looking ahead

Agriculture does not need to be a separate subject. However, it does need a more prominent and consistent presence in the curriculum. That means strengthening existing subject content, making better use of industry expertise and ensuring teachers have the confidence and resources to talk about farming. There is already excellent work happening through programmes such as Farmers for Schools, where farmers bring their stories into the classroom. More links between schools and local farms are needed, including more farm visits and industry input into curriculum design.

A personal journey

My own passion for agricultural education was sparked in part by the NFU’s Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Programme (SYFAP), which I joined in 2021. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet other young people who shared my enthusiasm for making a difference. It also helped me see education as a powerful tool for advocacy and change. One of my proudest moments was taking part in a Farmers for Schools assembly in London with fellow ambassador Hannah Buisman.

For many of the pupils, it was their first real exposure to farming. Some had never been to the countryside before, let alone

Get involved

seen a tractor. Yet their curiosity was incredible! One student asked how grain is marketed and another wanted to know how much land is needed to rear livestock sustainably. These questions reminded me that children are inquisitive and more capable of understanding complex topics than we often give them credit for.

If you are passionate about agricultural education, there are practical ways that you can help. You could speak to your local NFU county adviser and they can help you connect with schools and other groups.

You could also join the Farmers for Schools programme and pass on your agricultural knowledge, tackle misconceptions and inspire the next generation.

For more information visit education. nfuonline.com/SpeakersForSchools

GIVING PUPILS FOOD FOR THOUGHT In July 2025 the NFU called on the government to strengthen the UK’s food security for the future by improving the quality of how food and farming is taught in schools.

With the curriculum under review for the first time in over a decade following the election of the Labour Government in July 2024, the NFU urged ministers to update subject content to better reflect the realities of modern farming and food production, particularly within STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects such as the popular GCSE biology award. The NFU argued that better education would not only support healthy, informed food choices from a young age, but also help close the skills gap by opening up new career pathways for young people at a time when the sector urgently needs skilled professionals in science, engineering and environmental management.

The NFU’s key asks of the government as it carried out its review, which was due to be published this autumn, were: - An urgent review of GCSE biology content and related subjects to better reflect food, farming and food security.

- A commitment to improving the quality of food education in all schools.

More than 43,000 people joined our call for a national curriculum that serves up a better food and farming education when our petition closed in September – and teachers think it’s a good idea too. A survey by the NFU and The Education Company found two thirds of teachers want more food education in schools.

Launching the campaign, NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos said: “The NFU is proud to call for an education system that gives the next generation a wider awareness of where their food comes from and the exciting career opportunities throughout the farm-to-fork journey.

“The government has repeatedly said that ‘food security is national security’.

“If it truly believes that, now is the time to act. This curriculum review is a once-in-a-generation chance to improve how young people learn about food and farming.

“Young people deserve to leave school with a fair understanding of the many benefits British farming has to offer. We know this is a view shared both by teachers and by tens of thousands of people across the country who stand behind us too. It’s time the curriculum caught up.”

September 2025

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Guest column

GUEST COLUMN Livestock science student and dairy farmer Nat Watkins is researching methanesuppressing feed additives and the obstacles facing their widespread uptake

D

epending on who you speak to about Bovaer®, it is either a novel fix to a global greenhouse gas problem or, as someone I know says, “a solution to a problem for people who don’t have much else to worry about”. It’s clear there is plenty of discussion to be had around the synthetic, methane-supressing feed additive, but one thing is certain. The science supporting it checks out.

Bovaer® does not enter the meat or milk of cattle that consume it. The 15 years

“Where there may be room for change is if initiatives from retailers or carbon markets were to become more lucrative” of studies on 3-NOP, the active component of the additive, have led to more than 68 countries, including the UK, approving it as food safe.

Yet, some consumers and farmers alike will not go near it. The recent ‘boycott’ of food products with links to the additive may have something to do with it.

Back in December last year, dairy processor Arla announced a trial of Bovaer® across 30 of its associated farms.

Claiming that the additive was unsafe, with some going as far as calling it “toxic” and “poison”, online activists called for shoppers to boycott UK supermarkets involved in the trial. These claims have since been thoroughly debunked.

So, if we boldly assume most people understand that Bovaer® is safe to use, then why aren’t farmers incorporating it into their feed? What other reasons do farmers have to be sceptical about it, and why would consumers not want to consume milk from Bovaer®-fed cattle?

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For consumers, the word ‘synthetic’ has a lot to do with it. There is a negative association there. Now, here’s a question – if Bovaer® was a natural methane inhibitor (like red seaweed), would there still be scepticism about it? I suspect those consumers who object may also hold the same opinion on other food-based issues, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and may buy organic anyway.

As for farmers feeding these products, the main barrier appears to be cost, and more importantly, the uncertainty around who will pay for the additives.

The phrase ‘you can’t be green if you’re in the red’ comes to mind. With no direct, commercial benefits of uptake, trials and stagnation are all the market can show on this issue for now. If new research was to show improvements in productivity, such as higher milk yield or growth rates, things may change, but for now it is simply a tool to tackle on-farm emissions.

Where there may be room for change is if initiatives from retailers or carbon

markets were to become more lucrative.

Research published in the journal SRUC shows consumers will pay a price premium of £0.23 for one litre of milk if labelled as ‘reduced methane’, suggesting a currently untapped market. ‘Greener’ products can pay, and if the premium price can beat the on-farm expenditure, then I’m sure there will be uptake shown in milk and meat production. Without financial backing, this new chapter will not be farmer-led.

In my final year at Hartpury University studying BSc (Hons) Agriculture with Livestock Science, I’ve decided to complete my dissertation on current attitudes to Bovaer®. Views on the additive are complicated and various, and in my opinion, its widespread uptake by farmers is a way off. In short, it won’t take 6,000 words of research to know the additive isn’t a simple solution to the dairy industry’s sustainability challenges. But what Bovaer® has done is show that agriculture can innovate without compromise. What’s left to do is to make it pay.

September 2025

10/09/2025 13:17:56

Dissertation funding

Could we sponsor your dissertation?

Every year, the NFU sponsors one undergraduate research project. We speak to 2024/25 sponsorship student, Elen Morris, about how the funding helped her produce a first-class thesis.

B

acked by our Food Business Unit, NFU sponsorship is available to any final year student conducting research on a topic relating to the UK food supply chain.

Last year, Harper Adams student Elen Morris was awarded the funding to gauge agri-food stakeholder trust in UK livestock assurance schemes.

Prompted by increased scrutiny of assurance schemes, particularly frustrations among livestock farmers over stringent requirements, rising costs and scheme duplication, Elen’s research focused on a range of stakeholders, from farmers to consumers.

Her report concluded attitudes towards the schemes vary from stakeholder to stakeholder, and laid out key outcomes for the industry to minimise confusion around the schemes that would ultimately enhance their credibility.

Elen’s dissertation was awarded a first-class grade, and she graduated from Harper Adams University with an equally impressive final mark.

As the recipient of the NFU’s dissertation sponsorship, Elen’s research benefited from agri-food industry insight and contacts supplied by the NFU. With the help of the Food Business Unit, Elen was able to source feedback from 126 livestock farmers as well as conduct an interview with a UK meat processor and food retailer.

Valuable opportunities

Speaking on her experience with the sponsorship, Elen said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks to the NFU for its generous sponsorship of my dissertation and the valuable opportunities it has provided.

“Its support in distributing my Harper Adams survey through their networks, student Elen Morris along with the expertise and was awarded the insights they shared throughout funding in 2024 the research process, has been greatly appreciated. These contributions have been fundamental to the success of this research.”

How to apply for the 2026 award

The NFU Dissertation Sponsorship is open for applications from September 2025. If you are researching topics related to the food supply chain as part of your dissertation then we want to hear from you.

Go to NFUonline.com/dissertation-sponsorship to read more on the application process and who can apply. You can also email FoodBusinessUnit@ nfu.org.uk for more information.

Applications close Monday 10 November 2025.

September 2025

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IT’S FREE YOU SAY?

NFU Student & Young Farmer membership is free to students and young farmers. It allows you to have a say and to contribute towards the future of agriculture, and you will benefit from access to experts in food and farming policy, plus bonus perks.

Join the largest and most influential farming association and receive: • Student Farmer magazine and British Farmer & Grower or Farming Wales magazine delivered to your door • The latest news and briefings from our policy experts in NFU Bulletin and sector-specific and regional e-newsletters • Be the first to find out about and register for our online NFU Live events • Welfare of Animals in Transport test for £75 (+VAT) • Save an exclusive 20% online with Sophie Allport • Access Lantra’s agricultural health and safety e-learning for FREE • Huge savings on Merlin Entertainment (Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and more) • 25% off ATV helmets and safety clothing from Spada • Free debt advice from PayPlan • NEW! 15% discount on Ridgeline Clothing – access the discount code at nfuonline.com/ridgeline

NCHING OUT

BRA planning The early days of n p10 your diversificatio

MOO'TRITION

machine The milk vending business p4

FUTURE FIT FOR THE regenerative Implementing p17 grazing practices

January 2025

A love language Off, cooking, Mike talks Bake ce of and the importan sourcing local p28

STOP THE FAMILY FARM TAX Six actions you can take p21

ISLAND

LIFE Meet the far the Isle of mers of Wight p4

2537069.indd 1

SYFAP TAKEOVER EDITION

to help your mental health p8

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH DAIRY

All things milk contracts p34

RURAL CR IME The imp

ortance of one anoth supporting er p30

SUCCES

Tips for tal SION king the future about p37

Septem

ber 2024 “Our rege nerative journey be from butc nefits hery beca use it allo us to tell ws each anim al’s story in its entirety to the custom er”

Ed Harris on p10

BACK BRITISH FARMING DAY

Farming takes ove r the capita l p8

SIX REASONS TO JOIN It’s open to all students and young farmers, 30 years old and under

Student Farmer and British Farmer & Grower or Farming Wales magazines delivered to your door

Be the first to find out about NFU Live events – and don’t miss your opportunity to watch our conference stream

Keep up to date with a unique login to NFUonline.com and NFU newsletters

Discounts on WATO test, Spada, Merlin Entertainment and more

Have your say and contribute towards the future of British farming!

SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN

or visit NFUonline.com/student or call 0370 428 1401 34

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September 2025

10/09/2025 13:18:17

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: HADLOW.AC.UK/ENROLMENT

Kent's only rural and land-based college

Student Accommodation Available!

September 2025

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10/09/2025 10:20:02

LOOK UP IT’S LIVE!

AVOID OVERHEAD

POWER LINES Download free safety information: northernpowergrid.com/safety or scan QR code to find out more

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September 2025

10/09/2025 10:20:07