Young Farmer Focus: Sam Mather - 'I couldn't see a life for me away from a farm'

Sam Mather, 17, from Crewkerne, is working as an apprentice on a farm in Dorset and is a member of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Club.

clock • 2 min read
Young Farmer Focus: Sam Mather - 'I couldn't see a life for me away from a farm'

As a young apprentice starting out my career in farming, I'm already convinced that it is the job of my dreams.

Literally, all my life I have been thinking about it. As soon as I left school, I knew that I wanted to work in agriculture.

There was nothing else I wanted to do. I have my grandad to thank for that. He worked on a 202-hectare (500-acre) farm milking cows for a living. It was hard work, but he loved it.

I remember seeing him at work and even getting involved myself, I knew it was meant to be.

Personally, I couldn't see a life away from a farm. When the opportunity became available to work on a farm full-time, I thought all my dreams had come true.

Very close to where I live in Dorset, I had gained experience in the industry by working with farming tenants on a weekend. They have encouraged and supported my development here.

I then started an official apprenticeship in September last year which has been a huge learning curve but one I would not change for the world.

I am literally excited about waking up in the morning to go to work. Having the beautiful countryside as your office is wonderful; especially when you live in Dorset.

The smell of the open air and the amazing views is a privilege to behold. You would not get this kind of job satisfaction from working in an office.

It is an old adage, but no two days are ever the same. Life would be boring if that was the case.

Getting to work with animals is another bonus. Milking cows is just an unbelievable thing to do and it connects you with nature.

The support I have received while working on the farm has been incredible. I would not have been able to progress without learning from people who have been doing the job for years and years.

While I am just setting out on my own journey, the chance to develop and learn has been sensational. I will never forget the experiences I have made here.

It has allowed me to strengthen my convictions in becoming an agricultural contractor in the future.

One of the big issues farmers are facing at the moment is milk prices going in the wrong way. Farmers are losing out which is making their jobs even harder when they are facing a cost of living crisis.

I am sure it is just a peak and trough moment, but it should not be underestimated just how much a slight variation in the market affects farmers so much.

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