At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily farm operations, ensuring excellent animal welfare and engaging with students and visitors.
- Company: Join Barnsley College's Land-Based Industries team at Wigfield Farm.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 47 days annual leave, pension contributions, and funded professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.
- Why this job: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts passionate about animal welfare and education.
- Qualifications: Level 3 in a land-based discipline and experience with agricultural animals required.
Barnsley College is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Stocks Person to join our Land‑Based Industries team at Wigfield Farm – our working farm, visitor attraction and Centre for Land‑Based Studies. This is a varied, hands‑on role supporting the day‑to‑day operation of the farm, with a strong focus on excellent animal welfare, site presentation and engagement with students and visitors. You will work with a range of agricultural animals, equipment and facilities, helping to maintain high standards across the site while contributing to learning opportunities and public engagement activities. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys practical outdoor work, working as part of a team and supporting both education and visitor experiences.
About You
You will be passionate about animal welfare and enjoy working in a practical, outdoor environment. You will be reliable, flexible and able to work effectively as part of a team, while also taking responsibility for your own work area. You will have experience working with agricultural animals and a clear understanding of safe working practices within a farm setting. You will be comfortable supporting students and engaging with visitors, helping to create a welcoming, safe and educational environment.
Required
- Level 3 qualification in a land-based discipline
- Maths and English at Level 2 or above or a willingness to work towards
- Paediatric First Aid or a willingness to work towards
- Minimum of two years’ relevant experience
- Experience of working with a variety of different species of animals (e.g. exotics, farm livestock, rodents)
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Experience supporting students or working in an educational setting
- Experience in a customer‑facing or visitor engagement role
- Relevant additional qualifications such as animal transport certification, telehandler licence, trailer licence or first aid
- Experience working with children and young people
Reasons to join us
- We offer substantial annual leave entitlement (Up to 47 days per year including bank and public holidays)
- Holiday purchase scheme to buy additional annual leave days
- Local Government Pension Scheme – with a generous 19.2% employer contribution!
- We invest in our people through funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training and paid volunteering days
- Career advancement opportunities with tailored support for staff to progress
- Free Barnsley College courses to support your professional and personal development (subject to approval)
- 24/7 access to same day appointments with a GP
- Exclusive discounts and cashback for retail, dining and leisure as part of YouatWork
- Access to health cash plans as members of the Westfield Health Scheme or Health Shield
- Discounted college gym membership with onsite facilities
- Supporting employee mental health through access to free counselling services and the Foundations App
The Barnsley College Advantage
- Being supported to achieve your personal and professional goals
- A range of flexible working opportunities
- Autonomy, Empowerment and Accountability
- Short- and Long-Term development commitments
- Access to experiencing work in a range of areas
- Working in a Value and Behaviour led organisation
- Reward and Recognition
- Having your voice heard at every level
- Comprehensive Wellbeing Support
Closing date for applications is Sunday, 31st May 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the level of interest. Barnsley College is committed to creating a dynamic and diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all candidates regardless of their gender, disability, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or faith. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure from DBS. Please be aware that it is a Criminal offence to apply for this post if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity in connection to children.
Farm Stocks Person employer: Barnsley College
Barnsley College is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture at Wigfield Farm that prioritises animal welfare and educational engagement. With generous annual leave, extensive professional development opportunities, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, staff are empowered to grow both personally and professionally in a supportive environment. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a rewarding career in land-based industries.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Stocks Person
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the farm! Before your interview, take a stroll around Wigfield Farm if you can. Familiarise yourself with the animals and facilities. This shows your genuine interest and helps you chat confidently about how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your experience! When you're chatting with us, highlight your hands-on experience with different species of animals. Share specific stories that demonstrate your skills in animal welfare and teamwork – we love hearing real-life examples!
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with us! During the interview, don’t just answer questions; ask us about our educational initiatives and visitor engagement activities. This shows you're not only interested in the role but also in being part of our community at Barnsley College.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and what makes Barnsley College a great place to work.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Stocks Person
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare:Make sure to highlight your love for animals in your application. We want to see that you genuinely care about animal welfare and have experience working with different species. Share any relevant stories or experiences that showcase your commitment!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Mention specific skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for at Wigfield Farm.
Be Clear About Your Experience:When detailing your experience, be specific about the types of animals you've worked with and any relevant qualifications. We want to know how your background makes you a great fit for this role, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Barnsley College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley College
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the different species you'll be working with. Be ready to discuss your experience with various animals, including any specific care practices or challenges you've faced. This shows your passion for animal welfare and your hands-on experience.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working as part of a team, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your flexibility and reliability, and be prepared to share how you contribute to a positive team environment, especially in an educational setting.
✨Engagement is Key
You'll be interacting with students and visitors, so practice how you would explain farm activities or animal care to someone unfamiliar with the environment. Think about ways to make learning engaging and fun, as this will demonstrate your ability to create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the farm's educational initiatives or how they support staff development. It shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
