Held across four months, there are a total of seven sessions, some of which are in person and others that are held virtually. Sessions cover a variety of topics such as understanding the milk market, business planning, succession planning, future opportunities, people management and tax and trading structures. In addition, there is a two-day finance course and a final two-day session which takes place on farm, both of which are delivered by The Andersons Centre, Partner, Tony Evans.
“Having been involved in the course since its launch ten years ago I have not only seen how it has evolved but have witnessed first-hand the confidence and success it has brought to a huge amount of its cohorts,” Mr Evans says.
Josh Fincham took part in the 2016 course, when he applied, he was herd manager for a 400-cow split block unit and now runs a 270-cow herd in Dorset on a 50:50 contract farming agreement with RABDF Council Member Guy Trehane and his wife, Anne.
Josh says it is the only dairy-specific course available in the sector and it is as a result of enrolling that he had the confidence to manage his own business. He says: “Entrepreneurs in Dairying teaches you everything you need to know about running a business, such as accounts and people management, not only this but it taught me life lessons I didn’t even realise I needed to know.”
The scheme has continued to grow in popularity since it began, and with over 20 people having already registered their interest for the upcoming course in the autumn, anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch sooner rather than later to ensure their place can be accommodated.
This training programme only emphasises RABDF’s commitment to developing the next generation says RABDF managing director Matthew Knight.
“It’s great to see the course as popular as ever, with so many people still keen to enrol each year, the benefits and opportunities it has opened up to past cohorts speak volumes in terms of demonstrating its success, and it is an initiative we are proud to manage.”
Emily Collins, AHDB knowledge exchange manager says: "AHDB is proud to support the programme which helps build knowledge and confidence in people looking to succeed in the dairy industry whether that’s as a dairy herd manager, a tenant or in a joint venture. We’ve received some fantastic feedback from previous attendees about how it has helped develop their careers and would encourage anyone thinking about joining this year to get their application in.”
Martin Hanson, head of agricultural banking at HSBC UK says: “HSBC UK are pleased to be supporting the Entrepreneurs in Dairying course. As the first bank to have a dedicated agriculture team, HSBC UK provides specialist knowledge and support focusing entirely on the industry. Our national network of 85 Agriculture Managers are dedicated to helping farmers and growers drive their businesses and realise their goals, as well as supporting new entrepreneurs into the industry.”
The course starts in October and a full schedule of dates and topics will be released shortly. Applicants can be any age and at any point on their career journey. Forms are available to download at www.rabdf.co.uk and the course costs £490+VAT. Applications must be submitted by 1 September but with limited spaces we expect the spaces to fill up before this date. There are a handful of subsidised spaces available, if this is of interest please contact ambermckay@rabdf.co.uk for further information.
More information can be foud here -https://www.rabdf.co.uk/latest-news/2023/8/3/applications-open-for-industry-renowned-dairy-course
