Next Generation Group

The next generation of farmers is one critical component in the future of farming. Many younger farmers are choosing to leave the industry, but those staying in it and new entrants coming to farming as a second career need support and encouragement.

 

What is the Next Generation group?

The Next Generation group is for Members’ families and their young farm workers, or Members new to the farming industry. It aims to improve their industry skills and knowledge and inspire them to stay in farming and, as part of our Future Farming programme, it provides personal development for those in the next stage of their farming career. Aimed at 25 to 45-year-olds, the Next Generation group offers an opportunity to hone business skills, broaden minds, expand knowledge and build connections.

How does it work?

Next Generation group members are invited to an exclusive programme of events (around four per year) tailored specifically to the needs of younger farmers. Hosted by Cornish Mutual, it involves expert speakers and, when possible, field trips and study days. Farmers learn from other farmers and this approach underpins all group activities.

How can I take part?

Participant recruitment continues throughout the year. If you, or a member of your family or farm team is interested in joining the group, please contact your local Cornish Mutual Field Insurance Advisor or email here.

Where can I see previous events?

Our previous events have included a visit to Oak Park Dairy, where Matt and Emily Mitchem have focused on environmental sustainability as they've developed the farm. We have also had presentations on succession planning from Professor Matt Lobley, and personal development from Nuffield Farming Scholar Ian Tremain.

Some presentations for in-person or online events are recorded - Next Generation Group members can access these videos by logging into the Cornish Mutual Member Area.

Explore the Future Farming Programme


Member Stories


Our Farming Journey

We are first-generation farmers, Rachel and Jake. We started our farming business three years ago and have never looked back. Find Out More

Latest News

04 Feb

Rewilding

Often thought of as simply ‘shutting the gate’ on a piece of land, farming consultant Jim Bliss explains why rewilding requires an active approach in the UK, while regenerative agronomist Hugo Ellis describes it as driving for balance and diversity in habitats and farm enterprises. And livestock, they say, are essential. On his Nuffield travels, Jim Bliss saw some spectacular examples of what he calls ‘passive’ rewilding, where stock had been removed from the land and nature returned – Patagonia National Park being one. But the UK doesn’t have the space to take this approach. “So, it's much better to have active rewilding, which does involve farming, just in a more nuanced way, where it's all about diversity,” says Jim.
Read More

Upcoming Events

Tuesday 25th February

Understanding SFI workshops: Nutrient Management Plan

11am-2pm | Duchy College Rosewarne

Wednesday 26th February

Understanding SFI workshops: Integrated Pest Management

11am-2pm | Duchy College Rosewarne