Supported by the RNAA opportunities Fund, we have been able to provide opportunities for Next Generation individuals to attend the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (RASC) 31st Commonwealth Agriculture Conference 2026.
AF Group
James grew up spending time with his grandfather on a mixed farm and during school, worked part-time on farms, strengthening his passion for the industry.
He has gone on to achieve a Distinction on a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture, furthering his knowledge and practical skills. Since college, he has gained valuable experience working on several mixed farms and estates, taking on roles such as a herdsman, arable operator and gamekeeper. He progressed to the position of farm foreman on a 1,000-acre mixed farm, managing a 500-head beef herd. James currently works for the AF Group as Business Development Manager.
University of East Anglia (UEA)
Jess is a final year PhD student at the University of East Anglia’s (UEA) School of Environmental Sciences, specialising in interdisciplinary agricultural research. Jess was recently accepted onto the Bridging Fields programme at the Royal Agricultural University, where she participated in a residency aimed at upskilling researchers in farmer-led and farmer-centric approaches to food systems research.
Additionally, Jess employs creative communication methods, partnering with organisations such as The Royal Society and The Country Trust for soil science educational outreach.
Beckhithe Farms
Luke currently works as business manager at Beckhithe Farms in Norfolk, supporting decision-making around financial performance, efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Luke is not from an agricultural background but has developed a strong and genuine interest in farming and rural enterprise.
North Farm Livestock
Sam, a livestock farmer at North Farm Livestock based in North Norfolk, began his postgraduate study at the Royal Agricultural University September 2026.
Samuel is from a non-traditional farming background and is undertaking the REALM MSc programme, marking a significant step in his professional development and commitment to contributing to the future of UK agriculture.
DL Ritchie Limited
Samuel currently works full time managing the family business whilst also working on a building site and providing farm/grant scheme advice to other businesses. Samuel also sits on the steering group for our local environmental cluster group.
Samuel has been a steward at the Royal Norfolk Show for 11 years and in 2025 became an RNAA Norfolk Scholar and attended the Oxford Farming Conference 2025.
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