Well-known Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Stephen James of Gelliolau, Clynderwen says continuing professional development (CPD), an anticipated mandatory requirement of the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme, will be a positive step forward for Welsh farming.

Due to start on January 1 next year, the version of the Sustainable Farming Scheme currently being considered includes the requirement to complete a minimum of six hours of learning, plus an element of Health and Safety, every year, for each business.

Stephen James, FRAgS, a well-known and well-respected rural figurehead, combines hands-on regenerative farming at the 600-acre family dairy farm he runs in partnership with his son Daniel, alongside numerous public-facing roles. A passionate advocate for young and new entrants, Mr James has been at the forefront of rural affairs in Wales for over 40 years.

Mr James welcomed the Welsh Government’s response to the last consultation, which resulted in a decision to make the training requirement more flexible and inclusive by including short courses, online training modules, attendance at demonstration days, discussion groups and other knowledge transfer activities eligible for CPD.

“Committing to learning will help equip farmers and all those working in the land-based industries with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and prosper in today’s rapidly changing rural landscape,” said Mr James, who was recently awarded Lantra Cymru’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Most professions insist on some level of CPD and this approach will benefit Welsh agriculture significantly, helping farmers to stay viable, resilient and competitive.

“Whatever age we are and however experienced we might be, the onus is on us as an industry to have the mindset that embraces personal development, which in turn leads to business development.”

“If we fail to take advantage of all this support and don’t learn about innovation, invest in new technologies, adopt best practice and find more efficient, cost-effective ways of sustainable land, livestock and business management, we risk losing out in today’s evolving markets.

“To safeguard the future of family farms for future generations, we need to focus on farming sustainably and comply with regulations, alongside working towards stronger business performance and achieving optimum productivity levels,” said Mr. James.

“We all recognise that our industry is under pressure. Climate and nature emergencies, market pressures, changing consumer demands and the requirement for sustainable land management which protects the environment, present us all with daily challenges.

“If we stay informed, we stay prepared, we stay adaptable and resilient,” said Mr James who emphasised that it is the responsibility of all those working in the land-based sectors to take full advantage of the wealth of support, guidance, events and training that’s available.

“The level of support available in Wales is the envy of many other farming nations and it’s essential we make full use of this.”

Eligible farmers registered with Farming Connect can access a range of fully-funded or subsidised training options including face-to-face accredited courses, e-learning modules and knowledge transfer options from key industry experts including Animal Health and Welfare training workshops, all eligible for CPD.