Applications open for industry-renowned dairy course

Entrepreneurs in Dairying, a business training course run by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), has opened to applicants ahead of its start in October.

Open to anyone involved in, or looking to be involved in, the dairy industry, the course is designed to equip applicants with knowledge that will be of use to them throughout their career.

There are seven sessions, some held in-person and others virtually, across four months. Sessions cover a variety of topics including 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 delivered by The Andersons Centre partner Tony Evans. Mr Evans said:

"Having been involved in the course since its launch 10 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." 

Josh Fincham took part in the 2016 course. When he applied he was herd manager for a 400-cow split block unit. He 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.

Mr Fincham said it was the only dairy-specific course available in the sector, and as a result of enrolling he now had the confidence to manage his own business. He said:

"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 realise I needed to know." 

The scheme has continued to grow in popularity, and anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch as soon as possible to ensure a place.

RABDF managing director Matthew Knight said:

"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, said:

"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."

A full schedule of dates and topics for the course 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 2023 but spaces are expected to fill up before this date. A handful of subsidised spaces are available.

Contact ambermckay@rabdf.co.uk for further information.