Nuffield Farming Scholarships: south west winners announced

The Trust awards approximately 20 scholarships annually in the UK to young people between the ages of 22 and 45 from across the agricultural industry, to enable them broaden horizons through study and travel overseas. Scholars are selected with a view to developing tomorrow’s leaders within their individual business and the industry as a whole.

One of this year's chosen scholars is Ian Baggs from Wareham, Dorset.

Ian Baggs

Ian returned to his family’s dairy farm following a successful career in civil engineering. Ian takes responsibility for the management of land, machinery and people, and he is keen to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.

A major challenge to the business is changing weather patterns impacting on their ability to grow plentiful rye grass, so Ian is keen to investigate alternative forage cropping and grazing techniques, and how these can be incorporated into UK farming businesses.

Ian's chosen topice for the scholarship is: ‘Sustainable forage cropping for dairy cattle in the face of climate change challenges’, and he is generously supported by The Trehane Trust.

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The other chosen scholar this year from the region is Chris Manley from Taunton, Somerset.

Chris Manley

Chris works as agriculture manager at Müller Milk and Ingredients. In this role, he provides strategic direction on agriculture and dairy farming issues as well as leads on the development of the company’s young farmer training programme.

Chris's topic for the scholarship is: ‘Taking Agriculture to the Leading Edge: What can we learn from the best leaders inside and outside Agriculture?’, and he is generously supported by Worshipful Company of Farmers with Savills.

Mike Vacher, Nuffield Farming Director said: “Following an unprecedented and challenging year for UK agriculture, we are pleased to announce our 2021 Scholars.

“They have been carefully selected for both their passion for their chosen topic, and for their potential as future leaders within UK agriculture.

“Our 2021 scholars have selected a range of topics that span the breadth of the industry, including livestock, soft fruits, aquaculture and workforce diversity. A Nuffield scholarship is a life changing experience, and will no doubt prove invaluable to both scholar businesses and to the industry as a whole.

“On behalf of Nuffield Farming, I wish the 2021 scholars the very best of luck as they prepare to start their studies. We are excited to hear more about the knowledge and experiences you gain over the course of your journeys. In these ever-changing times, what you bring back with you will play a vital role in driving UK agriculture forward."