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- Tasks: Lead the farm's animal care, site development, and student support.
- Company: A vibrant farm in Taunton dedicated to animal welfare and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while inspiring students.
- Qualifications: Experience in animal care and a passion for education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
The Farm Lead is responsible for the overall management, care, and ongoing development of the farm site. This includes ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health and safety, and site maintenance, while creating a safe, engaging, and well-organised environment for learning. The role covers all aspects of animal care from daily routines to seasonal requirements, compliance with animal welfare legislation, maintenance of buildings, tools, and machinery, and supporting students, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), when required. The Farm Lead will play a key role in shaping the future of the farm, contributing to site improvements, development projects, and long-term planning to enhance both animal welfare and educational opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Animal Care and Welfare
- Lead responsibility for the daily care and welfare of all animals, including feeding, watering, health checks, cleaning, and enrichment.
- Manage all seasonal animal care needs such as breeding support, lambing/calving (where applicable), shearing, vaccinations, parasite control, and winter preparations.
- Monitor animal health and behaviour, identify concerns early, and liaise with veterinary professionals as required.
- Ensure animal care practices meet current animal welfare legislation and best practice standards.
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date records including health, medication, movement, and welfare documentation.
- Farm Site Development and Maintenance
- Take responsibility for the ongoing development of the farm site, identifying opportunities to improve facilities, animal enclosures, land use, and learning spaces.
- Plan and support site development projects to enhance animal welfare, safety, and educational value.
- Oversee maintenance of fields, fencing, shelters, pathways, and buildings.
- Carry out general repairs and practical tasks to ensure the site remains safe, functional, and well-presented.
- Maintain all tools, equipment, and machinery, ensuring regular servicing, safe use, and correct storage.
- Safely operate farm machinery, including tractors and other agricultural equipment.
- Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Ensure all farm activities comply with health and safety regulations.
- Complete and review risk assessments and safe systems of work.
- Maintain a safe environment for animals, staff, students, and visitors.
- Ensure compliance with animal welfare, environmental, and educational regulations.
- Support inspections, audits, and regulatory checks as required.
- Student Support and Education
- Support students on the farm site when required, including children and young people with Special Educational Needs.
- Model safe, calm, and respectful behaviour around animals and equipment.
- Work collaboratively with education and support staff to meet individual student needs.
- Support students to develop responsibility, confidence, and practical life skills through meaningful farm activities.
- Learning Spaces and Shared Areas
- Support the cleaning and upkeep of farm-based classrooms and shared learning spaces.
- Ensure all learning environments are safe, organised, and ready for use.
- Leadership and Teamwork
- Take a proactive lead in the day-to-day running of the farm.
- Support, guide, and supervise staff, volunteers, and students working on the farm.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, management, and external professionals.
Requirements
- Minimum of three years’ experience managing and caring for animals.
- Strong working knowledge of animal welfare legislation and best practice.
- Experience working with children or young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
- Hard-working and physically fit, with the ability to work outdoors in all weather.
- Competent and confident tractor driver.
- Experience using a wide range of farm machinery, tools, and equipment.
- Strong understanding of health and safety and risk management.
- Ability to work independently, use initiative, and manage competing priorities.
- Good organisational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records.
- Calm, patient, and reliable approach to work.
- Qualifications in agriculture, animal care, land-based studies, or a related field.
- First Aid qualification (or willingness to undertake training).
- Experience in educational, therapeutic, or care-farm settings.
- Practical skills such as fencing, land management, or basic construction.
- Experience supervising or training others.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about animal welfare and outdoor work.
- Practical, solution-focused, and proactive.
- Flexible and adaptable to the needs of the site and students.
- Takes pride in maintaining high standards.
- Positive role model for students, staff, and visitors.
Farm Lead in Taunton employer: Empower Family Group
Contact Detail:
Empower Family Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Lead in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the farm and its team before applying! Visit the site if you can, chat with current staff, and soak up the atmosphere. This will not only give you insights into the role but also show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
When you get that interview, be ready to share your hands-on experiences with animal care and management. We want to hear about your practical skills and how you've tackled challenges in the past!
✨Tip Number 3
Show us your passion for animal welfare! Bring examples of how you've gone above and beyond in previous roles to ensure the health and happiness of animals. It’s all about demonstrating your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your teamwork skills! The Farm Lead role is all about collaboration, so share stories of how you've successfully worked with others, especially in educational or therapeutic settings.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Lead in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare: When writing your application, let us see your genuine love for animals and outdoor work. Share any experiences that highlight your commitment to animal care and welfare, as this is a key part of the Farm Lead role.
Be Specific About Your Experience: We want to know about your hands-on experience managing animals and working with students, especially those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've tackled challenges in these areas.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Farm Lead, you'll be guiding staff and students. Make sure to mention any leadership roles you've had before, and how you’ve successfully managed teams or projects. This will show us you're ready to take charge!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Empower Family Group
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of animal care and welfare. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed animal health, feeding routines, and seasonal needs. This shows your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Farm Lead, you'll be guiding staff and students. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or supported others, especially in educational settings. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and create a positive environment.
✨Demonstrate Health and Safety Awareness
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to farm management. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented safety measures in previous roles, including risk assessments and compliance with legislation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like an animal health crisis or a challenging student interaction. Practise your responses to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and calm approach under pressure.
