At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage sheep and cattle, assist with student learning, and operate farm machinery.
- Company: Bishop Burton College, a forward-thinking agricultural education provider.
- Benefits: 40 days leave, local government pension, free gym membership, and on-site accommodation.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful rural setting with opportunities for skill development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in livestock farming education.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Agriculture and two years of practical farming experience required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 € per year.
39 Hours Per Week, Monday to Friday 7am to 4pm (working one weekend in four 4 hours each day).
Are you passionate about livestock farming and looking for a varied, hands‑on role within a supportive and forward‑thinking environment? Bishop Burton College is seeking a Mixed Farm Operative (Shepherd) to join our thriving farm enterprise. Our college farm is a diverse operation, comprising 150ha of arable cropping, 160 Aberdeen Angus cross beef finishers, 370 breeding ewes and a B&B pig breeding unit.
As a key member of the team, you will take an active role across all enterprises, with a particular focus on sheep management, while also supporting the college’s practical teaching environment. In this role, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management of the sheep flock, including feeding, health checks, grazing management and general stock care. You will also assist with cattle care, maintain accurate livestock records using AgriWebb, and support the selection of breeding and finished stock.
The position involves operating a range of farm machinery, such as for cultivations, trailer work and grassland operations, as well as playing an active role in supporting student learning through practical sessions on the farm.
We are looking for someone with an NVQ Level 3 in Agriculture (or equivalent experience), along with at least two years’ practical farming experience and a strong background in livestock work, including lambing or calving. A telehandler certificate is essential, along with a proactive, ‘can‑do’ attitude and a willingness to work weekends on a rota.
Desirable skills include experience with arable operations and GPS systems, PA1/PA2 or ATV certification, and an interest in sheep performance data and regenerative agriculture.
In return, we offer on‑site accommodation, the opportunity to work within a modern mixed farming enterprise, and the chance to contribute to an educational setting supporting the next generation of farmers. This is a varied, practical role with opportunities to develop your skills across multiple areas of farming.
If you are enthusiastic about livestock farming and enjoy working in a dynamic, educational environment, we would love to hear from you.
Shortlisting for this role will be based solely on the information provided in the application form. CVs will not be considered during the shortlisting process. Please ensure that your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the person specification.
Bishop Burton College promotes equality, diversity and inclusion ensuring fair treatment, representation, and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background or characteristics. We see this as essential for creating inclusive environments and fostering innovation and creativity.
In addition to working in a beautiful rural environment, you will benefit from the following:
- Local Government Pension Scheme - This is a defined benefit scheme with generous employer contributions
- 40 days leave including 25 days annual leave, concessionary days and bank holidays, all leave is pro‑rata for staff employed on a part‑time contract
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free car parking
- A range of on‑site catering facilities
- Optional health cash plan
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted gym membership at the on‑site gym
- Dedicated health and wellbeing programme
- Free will writing service
- Generous sick pay and compassionate leave scheme
- Enhanced maternity/adoption pay
- Free eye tests for DSE users
- 15% Discount on Tickets at East Yorkshire Buses
The college does not hold a sponsorship licence so therefore this post is not open to candidates who require sponsorship under the UK’s points‑based immigration system. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. As this is a position of trust, the successful candidate will be required to disclose any criminal convictions and will be subject to enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), barring (where applicable), reference, qualification and health checks. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The College is an equal opportunities employer.
Mixed Farm Operative - Shepherd employer: Bishop Burton & Riseholme College
Bishop Burton College is an excellent employer for those passionate about livestock farming, offering a supportive and forward-thinking environment where you can thrive. With a commitment to employee growth, generous benefits including 40 days leave, a local government pension scheme, and opportunities to work in a modern mixed farming enterprise, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture while enjoying a beautiful rural setting. Join us to make a meaningful impact in an educational context that values diversity and inclusion.
Contact Detail:
Bishop Burton & Riseholme College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mixed Farm Operative - Shepherd
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the farm and its operations! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Bishop Burton College's farming practices. Understanding their approach to livestock management and education will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When discussing your background, highlight specific examples of your work with sheep, cattle, or any machinery. We want to see that you’ve got the practical skills to back up your qualifications.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about teamwork! This role involves working closely with students and other staff. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to collaborate and support others in a learning environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the application form thoroughly, showcasing how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria. Remember, CVs won’t be considered, so focus on making your application shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Mixed Farm Operative - Shepherd
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for livestock farming! In your application, share specific experiences that highlight your love for sheep management and how you’ve contributed to similar roles in the past.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to align your skills and experiences with the essential and desirable criteria mentioned in the job description. We want to know how you meet each requirement, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your responses well, so we can easily see how you fit the role without sifting through unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only consider applications submitted through our website. So, head over there, fill out the application form, and make sure it reflects your best self!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bishop Burton & Riseholme College
✨Know Your Livestock
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sheep and cattle management. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with lambing, calving, and general stock care. Showing that you understand the day-to-day needs of livestock will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Passion for Farming
Let your enthusiasm for livestock farming shine through. Share specific examples of what excites you about working in a mixed farming environment and how you can contribute to the college's educational mission. A genuine passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Highlight Relevant Qualifications
Ensure you clearly outline your NVQ Level 3 in Agriculture or equivalent experience in your application. Mention any additional certifications like telehandler, PA1/PA2, or ATV, as these are essential for the role. Being upfront about your qualifications will help the interviewers see you as a strong fit.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss practical scenarios related to sheep management and farm machinery operation. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the varied tasks you'll encounter.
