The Future of UK Farming with Nuffield Scholar Dan Smith - 'Generation Regeneration' and Engaging Youth in Agriculture

02/12/25 • 36 min

What happens when a passionate farmer and a forward-thinking scholar meet? Today, Dan Smith from the Wye Valley joins us to explore the future of agriculture in the UK. As a current Nuffield Scholar, Dan takes us through his unique journey into farming, the sense of community it brings, and the rewarding task of producing quality food and public goods. Learn how the Nuffield Scholarship fosters global research and networking, and dive deep into Dan's focus topic, "Generation Regeneration," which underscores the urgent need for youth and diversity in farming.
Is there a growing disconnect between children and agriculture? Our conversation uncovers the challenges of incorporating farming education into schools and making the industry appealing to the younger generation. Modern advancements in agriculture are often overshadowed by outdated perceptions, but Dan stresses the importance of showcasing these innovations to ignite interest. From improving health and safety standards to bettering the earnings and opportunities in farming, we discuss strategies to bridge the generational gap in farming knowledge and make agriculture a compelling career choice.
Technology's role in agriculture is expanding rapidly, but how can we ensure it benefits farmers and attracts new talent? We discuss precision farming, tech innovations, and the critical role of social media in inspiring the next generation of farmers. With insights on government policies, apprenticeships and the impact of popular media like "Clarkson's Farm," Dan outlines the complex, yet necessary, efforts needed to reframe the agricultural industry. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to offer a comprehensive look at the future of farming and the multifaceted approaches required to sustain it.

Previous Episode

Why Veterans & Their Military Skills can be Perfect for Jobs in Agriculture & Farming

Explore the transformative intersection of military service and agriculture with Dawn Turner, the inspiring CEO and founder of Stepway. Dawn's journey from personal loss and familial challenges to establishing a universal rehabilitation program for veterans is both touching and enlightening. She passionately tackles misconceptions about veterans, revealing their hidden potential and valuable skills for the agricultural sector. Through Stepway’s innovative Seven Steps Civilian Skills Programme, Dawn offers mental health and employability support, proving that veterans are not only capable but exceptional contributors to civilian life and industries like farming.
Transitioning from military to civilian life isn't easy, and Dawn sheds light on the unique challenges veterans face, particularly in the workplace. We discuss how employers can create welcoming environments by recognizing veterans' strengths and providing essential support systems. From flexible job ads to accommodating mental health needs, there are numerous ways to make workplaces more inclusive to attract the fantastic ex-military talent that is available for a range of jobs.

Next Episode

Why Disabilities Shouldn’t Hold You Back From a Career in Agriculture & Farming

Discover the transformative journey of Mike Duxbury, one of the UK’s few blind farmers, in this insightful episode that challenges the stereotypes surrounding disability in agriculture. Join us as Mike shares his incredible experiences and lessons learned while navigating a career in farming, defying preconceived notions about what someone with a disability can achieve.
Throughout our discussion, Mike recounts his early passion for agriculture and how he overcame significant obstacles, including the discouragement he faced from teachers when he expressed his dreams of working in farming. His story reveals not only his relentless determination but also highlights the pressing issue of unemployment among disabled individuals, emphasising the need for systemic change within industries, including agriculture.
As the conversation unfolds, we delve into the importance of inclusivity in agricultural practices. Mike speaks about his venture with Inclusive Farm, where he works to ensure opportunities for individuals with disabilities, creating an environment that promotes equality and access. Listeners will gain insights into the simple adaptations that can make farming more accessible, ultimately enhancing workplace culture and efficiency.
We also explore the benefits of embracing diversity in agriculture—from fostering innovative thinking to addressing workforce shortages. Mike’s visions for the future provide a compelling call to action, encouraging agricultural leaders to rethink their hiring practices and create diverse teams that reflect the society we live in.
This episode serves as both a source of inspiration and a roadmap for fostering an inclusive agricultural environment. Tune in and discover how we can collectively make a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on creating a more inclusive future for agriculture!

AgriCulture Live - The Future of UK Farming with Nuffield Scholar Dan Smith - 'Generation Regeneration' and Engaging Youth in Agriculture

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.980

Good morning , welcome to Agriculture Live . My name's Rebecca Shields , I'm one of the directors at Agricultural Recruitment Specialists and today I've got Dan Smith , so don't go anywhere . It's going to be a good one you don't want to miss out . It's a great episode . It's all about the next generation in agriculture and farming in the UK . If you've got any questions or comments