Young Farmers Week with NFYFC

Today, we're going to explore the role of Young Farmers Clubs with a specific focus on this year's theme, 'YFC is for Everyone'.

YFC is for everyone, with more than 500 young farmers clubs throughout England and Wales, and over 23,000 young people enjoying taking part in YFC activities every week.

National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (nfyfc.org.uk)

Introduction to Young Farmers Clubs (YFC)

There are a whole host of social and learning opportunities for anyone who loves the countryside. YFC is for everyone. Consolidated, the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs' ongoing and existing work on inclusion, diversity, wellbeing, and behaviour, as well as the many diverse education and career opportunities within agriculture for young farmers, have joined me this morning.

And you don't actually have to be a farmer to join a Young Farmers club.

Meet the Guests Guests:

So let's start with some introductions. Could each of you briefly share your role either with Young Farmers Clubs or within your organisation, and what first attracted you to YFC?

Luke Cox
I'm an arable farmer from Gloucestershire. I've been involved in Young Farmers since I turned ten, so that's 18 years now. I've served in various capacities and am now the YFC Chair. I represent the views of all 23,000 members on agricultural and rural issues. I'm very honoured to chair this group. 

It's the opportunities that YFC opens up. It's so varied—whether it's agricultural-related or something completely different, like floral art. I've done pretty much everything, some more successfully than others. The chance to try new things and meet new people in the industry is fantastic. 

Poppy Bunting
I'm a specialist with Agrii and the Joint County Chair of Norfolk YFC. Originally, my dad was involved in YFC years ago. He encouraged me to join, so I attended some meetings and started talking to various people. I realised it was a real opportunity to get involved in a range of activities, competitions, and events. I was curious to see what YFC was all about and have enjoyed every moment since. 

Josh Bryan
I'm a trainee economist with Agrii. I've been part of YFC in South Warwickshire since I was about 14 years old. I joined because a friend thought I'd enjoy it and it was a way for me to get into the farming industry, especially since I attended a non-rural school. The connections I made through YFC allowed me to travel and work internationally, which has been invaluable.

This year, I'll be running for vice chairman on the committee. I've built strong relationships and seen how YFC can help shape an amazing career.

The Value of Young Farmers Clubs

YFC is known for its broad range of activities. What do you think are the most valuable aspects of being involved, both for personal development and community building? 

Josh Bryan
The competition days are a highlight, like the crop weed and pest identification contest, which directly relates to my current work. YFC builds confidence, helps members engage with farmers, and fosters skills that go beyond agriculture.

Poppy Bunting
YFC offers a range of opportunities to work with various industries, not just agriculture. Members often get access to experiences that many might not associate with farming, like working closely with non-agricultural businesses or engaging in fundraising initiatives.

Inclusivity in Young Farmers Clubs 

This year’s theme is 'YFC is for Everyone'.  How does YFC ensure it’s inclusive and appealing to a diverse range of members? 

Luke Cox
One way is by offering varied programmes. A weekly meeting could range from livestock judging to mini golf, ensuring there’s something for everyone. This helps bring in members from different backgrounds, not just traditional farming families. It’s more about having fun and showing we’re not just focused on rural activities. 

Poppy Bunting
We’re improving how we promote what we do outside our traditional networks. Social media has been key in reaching a broader audience. At our club, for instance, we’ve used platforms like Instagram to share events, which has attracted people from non-farming backgrounds.

Developing Skills and Careers Through YFC 

What skills can members gain from YFC, and how do they translate to careers both in and outside of agriculture? 

Josh Bryan
Confidence and networking are big ones. Through YFC, I’ve connected with people globally, which allowed me to travel and work in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. 

Luke Cox
Public speaking has been a significant skill for me. Competing in YFC’s speaking competitions has given me the confidence to present in professional settings. We also have members who’ve turned hobbies, like floral art, into full-fledged businesses. 

Poppy Bunting
There are countless opportunities to develop leadership skills by serving on committees at club, county, and national levels. This leadership experience is valuable for any career path.

Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing

How do YFC clubs support the mental health and wellbeing of their members?


Poppy Bunting
First and foremost, YFC members naturally support each other. Being part of a club and community provides an important outlet. Weekly meetings offer a space to talk and connect.

In Norfolk, we work closely with YANA, a mental health charity for rural communities. Collaborating with external organisations ensures our members have access to support when needed.

Future Challenges and Opportunities for YFC

Looking ahead, what do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities for Young Farmers Clubs in continuing to attract new members and staying relevant to the younger generation?


Luke Cox
Access to land and finance are significant challenges. To have a thriving YFC, we need a vibrant farming community. Many young people find it difficult to enter farming due to these barriers.

Josh Bryan
Keeping our core values while adapting to new ideas is essential. Using social media to reach urban audiences and showing that YFC is open to everyone, regardless of background, will be crucial.

Poppy Bunting
YFC members are already leading the way in sustainability and innovative farming practices. We need to continue supporting them as they tackle these industry challenges.

The Role of Sponsorship and Partnerships

How does Agrii’s partnership with YFC contribute to the goals of inclusivity and accessibility? What excites you most about the collaboration?

Poppy Bunting
There's real value in our partnership with Agrii. YFC is recognised not just within the local community but also by big corporations. Agrii’s sponsorship adds significant value to our members and supports the community within British farming.

Josh Bryan
Corporate partnerships like Agrii’s are hugely important for YFC’s mission. They allow us to work together to provide opportunities for members, whether they are young farmers aged 10 to 28 or beyond. The connections from these partnerships are invaluable for the future, as demonstrated by both Poppy and my experiences.

Final Advice for Prospective YFC Members

What sums up YFC and ‘YFC is for Everyone’?

Poppy Bunting
Fun. There are so many opportunities to get involved in different activities, but above all, it’s about having fun. Inclusivity is something I’ve experienced first hand. We have a broad range of members, and we want to keep that going forward.

Josh Bryan
You don’t have to attend every meeting or event. You can come to whatever interests you. New member evenings are perfect for those who are new and unsure.

Don’t worry about attending every single week—you can be as flexible as you like. My message for National Young Farmers Week: Bring a friend along. 

There’s so much opportunity within YFC that people don’t necessarily realize. Let others enjoy everything YFC offers.

Find out more about Young Farmers Week
National Young Farmers' Week (nfyfc.org.uk)