Next Generation group
The Next Generation Farmers Programme, a Myton Food Group initiative, which is one of the largest food manufacturers in the UK, operating across 16 sites stretching from Scotland to Cornwall, helps to equip young farmers with the tools, knowledge and networks they need to thrive.
The programme, which launched in 2020, has seen more than 75 of Myton's farming suppliers take part, with young farmers across all sectors participating, from livestock and eggs to vegetable growers.
It is open to anyone aged between 18 to 30 – whether you are studying agriculture or managing a UK farm or are an existing supplier to Myton Food Group, you can apply.
Visit the 24 Hours in Farming hub now to download your pledge of support
It can give those wanting to develop their professional career a real boost.
Harry Charlton, a beef and pork farmer from North Yorkshire, was part of the programme's last cohort and it gave him that valuable wider experience of the supply chain process.
"It was a great experience, from meeting new people to seeing other side of the agricultural sector which I have not been involved in, including egg production," he said.
Supply chain
"I go to see the full Myton supply chain, from meat manufacturing to vegetable processing. We have been to some really eye-opening farms which I would never have had the chance to see without the Next Generation programme. It was great to see the full supply chain and I would recommend to anyone."
The programme takes place over the course of a year, completed in three two-day sessions with accommodation provided.
Participants will benefit from a wide range of topics including:
- Business improvement and personal development workshops, helping young farmers build resilience and commercial know-how.
- Succession planning and financial acumen, ensuring long-term farm viability.
- Field-to-fork insight, through visits to key manufacturing sites such as Woodhead Bros abattoirs and Chippindale eggs.
- Retail exposure, with store walks arranged with retail partner Morrisons to better understand consumer expectations.
- Sustainability and welfare best practices, shared through on-farm experiences and
- in-depth talks.
- Featured guest speakers and training partners such as Farmers Guardian, AHDB, Map of Ag, the School of Sustainable Food and Farming, and leading experts in livestock genetics and nutrition.
Lily Spencer-Brown, livestock technical development manager, said: "The Next Generation scheme plays a vital role in nurturing future leaders in the agri-food sector. Investing in young talent is essential to securing a resilient and sustainable future for British agriculture."
READ NOW: Leading the Field: Become the next face of #farm24
Leading the field
For the 10th anniversary of this year's 24 Hours in Farming, Farmers Guardian is launching a new competition, Leading the Field, to find the next voice for farming.
The winner will be announced as one of next year's #farm24 ambassadors and will play a key role in helping us share farming's story.
It does not matter whether you have thousands of followers on social media, we want someone who is passionate about the industry, will actively promote agriculture to a wider audience and stand up for the sector.
If you want to take part, visit www.FarmersGuardian.com/leadingthefield
Take part in 24 Hours in Farming
This year 24 Hours in Farming is back and bigger than ever. It is time to tell the nation your story, whether you are from farming or not. Farmer, farm worker, vet, student, agronomist – whatever your role, you play a key part in holding the agricultural industry together.
On August 7, 5am to August 8, 5am, take part in agriculture's biggest digital event and head to social media to share your pictures and videos to show the nation what this industry is truly all about.
Tag Farmers Guardian and Morrisons and use #farm24 to take part!
Be proud
Make sure to take part in this year's pledge competition. Visit the 24 Hours in Farming website, download your ‘I'm proud to support #farm24' pledge and take a picture with it.
This year we want to see the most creative and innovative pictures, and the best will be in with the chance of winning a prize!
