Cornwall Students Secure Cash Boost for Farming Futures

Photo: Duchy College students Jacob Frost (L) and Imogen Ellis (R)

Two Cornwall-based students, Imogen Ellis and Jacob Frost, have been awarded Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries to support their agricultural studies. The scheme, which received a record number of entries this year, provides financial support to help young farmers further their education and careers.

A Leap of Faith into Farming

Imogen, who spent 14 years as a primary school teacher while working on local farms, made the bold decision to pursue a full-time career in agriculture. Now in her third year of an Agriculture degree, she has a keen interest in the link between farming, local food, and nutrition.

“Leaving my career in teaching was a big leap of faith but I’m passionate about the industry and believe I have a lot to offer,” said Imogen. “By working with schools, farmers and supermarkets I’d like to create links and advice to support families with decision-making around food.”

She has been awarded a £750 Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Higher Education Bursary to support her studies.

From No Farming Background to a Promising Career

Jacob, who is studying a Level 3 Agriculture course, has a particular interest in regenerative farming. Despite not coming from a farming background, he is determined to build a future in the industry.

“I like working in agriculture because there is so much to learn and it’s a job which is predominantly based outdoors where no two days are the same,” he said.

Jacob received a £500 bursary for students in Further Education. He plans to use the funding to gain key qualifications:

“I would like to spend the money on the assessments for a telehandler ticket and ATV ticket. This would mean I could use a quad bike to help manage grassland pastures at the organic dairy farm I work at, making me more useful to the farm and any future places of work.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers

The Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries are part of the Future Farming Programme, which aims to support young people in the South West who are pursuing careers in agriculture.

“The bursaries are really important in helping our students achieve their aims, both while they are doing their course and further into their careers,” said Paul Ward, Researcher and Programme Manager at Duchy College.

Applications are judged by a panel that includes Cornish Mutual Chief Executive Officer Peter Beaumont.

“Supporting the next generation of farmers is crucial to the future of agriculture in the South West and our bursaries form just part of this support,” said Peter. “Both Imogen and Jacob demonstrated a clear passion for their areas of interest and role in the future of agriculture.”

To find out more about the Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries, visit:
🔗 Cornish Mutual Future Farming Programme

Photo: Duchy College students Jacob Frost (L) and Imogen Ellis (R)