That is what Growing Future Farmers (GFF), a training programme for young people interested in entering the sheep, beef and deer industry is looking for — providing a career pathway for farmers of the future. Gisborne farmers Dan and Tam Jex-Blake spoke at information evenings in Winton and Kurow last week, outlining the programme to potential farmer trainers. The Essential Farms skills programme was a two-year programme with zero fees, comprising practical workplace training and development, NZQA level 3 qualifications and pastoral care support. It offered a range of specialised farm training and development courses with the practicalities of farm experience and training throughout the programme. Mr and Mrs Jex-Blake’s involvement with the programme was driven by a desire to help doing something about training young people in their sector.

Source: Otago Daily Times July 26, 2020 16:30 UTC