Farming for the Future: Educating the Next Generation

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to become a lecturer?
As a fourth-generation hill farmer, I've always been deeply connected to the land and the rhythms of agriculture. Growing up on the farm, from a young age I developed a profound appreciation for the hard work, dedication, and resilience required to sustain this rural way of life.

My passion for education was ignited by a desire to share my knowledge and experience with others. I've always believed that understanding where our food comes from is essential for building a more sustainable and connected society. Inspiring and motivating the next generation of young farmers has been a particular goal, as I see them as the future of our agricultural industry. Bridging the gap between the rural and urban communities is another important aspect of my work. I believe that everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to learn about food, farming, and the environment. By fostering an understanding and appreciation for rural life, I believe we can create a more cohesive and sustainable future.

What do you love most about your role in education?
Inspiring and mentoring the next generation is one of the most rewarding aspects of being an educator. Seeing young people develop their skills, passions, and confidence is incredibly fulfilling. I feel privileged to be able to educate people about the importance of producing safe, sustainable food and its connection with nature and the land. By highlighting the relationship between food, our environment, and the resources it provides, I'm contributing to a deeper appreciation for our planet and its ability to sustain life. It's a truly rewarding experience to know that my work is making a positive difference. I also love the opportunity to foster a love of learning and encourage students to explore new ideas. It's incredibly satisfying to witness the "light bulb moment" when a student truly grasps a concept or discovers something new.

What do you consider your greatest achievement as a lecturer?
Winning Lecturer of the Year in the Professional Teaching Awards Cymru and The NFU Cymru Woman Farmer of the Year are significant recognitions of my contributions to education and agriculture and my greatest achievements yet. These awards demonstrate my dedication to my students, my expertise in the field, and my ability to inspire and motivate others. They also highlight the importance of combining practical experience with effective teaching.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?
As an agricultural lecturer, I find the most rewarding aspects of my job to be the connections I form with my students and the positive impact I can have on their futures. Witnessing their growth, development, and achievements is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that I'm helping to shape the future of agriculture and contribute to a more sustainable industry. It's incredibly satisfying to see the tangible benefits of my work, such as students finding meaningful careers or contributing to innovative agricultural practices. Additionally, the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in agriculture and share that knowledge with my students is a constant source of personal and professional growth. Building relationships with my students and colleagues, and creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment, makes my work even more enjoyable and meaningful.

Can you share a particular moment or experience that stands out in your lecturing career?
One of the most memorable moments in my lecturing career was in 2023 when I hosted a farm open day for 200 pupils from our local primary school. Following the visit I received several letters of gratitude from a group of students. It was truly heartwarming to hear the positive response from the students. The letters of gratitude are a testament to the value of my efforts in educating them about the importance of farming and its contribution to the community and the landscape. It was a great feeling to know I'd made a lasting impression on those young minds, and a powerful reminder of the importance of our roles as educators and farmers and the lasting influence we have on students' lives.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in teaching?
As I considered a career in teaching, I realised that it's essential to have a genuine passion for learning and sharing knowledge. Patience is also crucial, as teaching often involves working with diverse students and overcoming various challenges. To be successful, I knew I needed a strong academic foundation, perhaps through a degree in education or a related field. Ongoing professional development would be essential to stay updated on the latest teaching methods and trends. Effective communication and empathy are vital for building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Adaptability and flexibility are also key, as curricula and student needs can change rapidly. It's important to prioritise work-life balance, managing stress and taking care of oneself to ensure a sustainable career. Volunteering in the community or in industry can provide valuable experience, while mentorship and networking with other educators can offer guidance and support.

What qualities and skills do you think are essential for success in the education sector?
As a dedicated educator, I believe that passion for my subject and teaching is fundamental to my success. I have a genuine enthusiasm for knowledge and a desire to share it with my students. Empathy and understanding are also crucial, as they allow me to connect with students on a personal level and appreciate their diverse needs and perspectives. Effective communication is vital for building strong relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators. Patience and perseverance are essential qualities, as teaching can be challenging at times, and it's important to maintain a positive attitude even when faced with setbacks. Adaptability and flexibility are also key, as the educational landscape is constantly evolving, and I must be able to adjust to new technologies and diverse learning styles. Strong organisational skills are essential for managing my classroom, grading assignments, and preparing lessons effectively. Finally, a commitment to lifelong learning is crucial for staying up-to-date with educational trends and best practices.

What do you think are the key qualities that led to you being awarded lecturer of the year?
I believe that my passion for agriculture and commitment to student success are fundamental to my role. I have a genuine enthusiasm for teaching and a desire to help my students reach their full potential. My strong industry connections and practical experience allow me to provide valuable insights and real-world examples that enrich the learning experience. I am dedicated to equipping my students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their future careers. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in education, I strive to maintain a high level of excellence in my teaching. These qualities, combined with effective communication, strong organisational skills, and a positive and engaging learning environment, contribute to a fulfilling and rewarding teaching career.

My farming background, and industry experience is invaluable. It provides me with a unique perspective that I can share with my students. I draw from my personal experiences to illustrate concepts and make them more relatable. My first hand knowledge of agricultural practices helps students understand the theoretical aspects of the subject. In my spare time, I love sharing my passion for farming and education. As a teacher, I’ve honed my ability to explain complex topics in simple, engaging ways. I use those skills to market our family business, painting a vivid picture of our farm and the delicious, sustainable produce we produce. By connecting people to their food and where it comes from, I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for agriculture and the land.

My connections within the industry provide students with valuable job placements and mentoring opportunities, giving students crucial connections and experience ready for the workplace. These connections also keep me informed about the latest trends, technologies, and challenges in the field.

To ensure my teaching remains relevant and up-to-date, I attend industry conferences, network with professionals, consult with experts, incorporate current events into my lectures, encourage student research, and utilise technology tools. By combining my industry experience with a commitment to staying current, I strive to provide my students with a valuable and relevant education that prepares them for successful careers in agriculture.

What are your future goals as an educator?
My educational mission is to guide and motivate young people to explore and succeed in the agricultural industry. Working in education alongside running my family farm allows me to develop my vision for the sustainability of farming in Wales. Culture, heritage, and traditions are integral to the existence of farming, and I want to contribute to its future. I will continue to encourage and foster a sense of stewardship for the land and a commitment to sustainable food production. I believe that education is a cornerstone for sustainable food production and the preservation of rural communities. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to understand and implement sustainable agricultural practices, we can promote environmental stewardship, stimulate economic resilience, strengthen community engagement, and inspire future generations.

Education in the agricultural sector is not just about technical skills; it's also about cultivating a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between food, the environment, and society. By investing in education, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for our rural communities and the planet as a whole. In conclusion, the future of Agricultural educators is promising, but it will require adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. I'm passionate about shaping the future of Welsh agriculture by discovering and implementing innovative and sustainable food production approaches that empower farmers with the necessary skills and mindset for long-term success.