Holly Bonner, winner of the 2024 British Farming Awards Agricultural Student of the Year award
From her family's beef and sheep farm in Devon to the stage at the 2024 British Farming Awards, Holly Bonner is proof that alternative pathways into agriculture can lead to exceptional success. Crowned British Farming Awards Agricultural Student of the Year 2024, Holly's journey is a testament to determination, hard work and an unwavering passion for farming.
Practical experience
Rather than follow the traditional A-level route, Holly chose a level 3 agricultural apprenticeship, diving straight into life on the farm while also gaining hands-on experience across different livestock sectors and even working in event catering. This practical, real-world experience laid a strong foundation for her next step, pursuing a BSc (Hons) in agricultural management at Bridgwater and Taunton College of University Centre Somerset.
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Academic excellence
Throughout her degree, Holly has not only demonstrated academic excellence, achieving grades consistently above 80%, but has also made a mark beyond the classroom. She reached the final of the Pinnacle Awards for Farm Business Excellence two years in a row, securing a Silver Award in her second year. These achievements reflect her drive to grow, adapt and stand out in a highly competitive industry.
In parallel with her studies, Holly continues to contribute to her family's farm and has gained valuable insight into farm consultancy. Her work with an independent agricultural consultant has given her exposure to grant schemes and business performance improvement, skills she hopes to take forward into a consultancy career.
Young Farmers' Club
As treasurer of her local Young Farmers' Club, she has also played an active role in her rural community.
Holly views her degree as one of her proudest achievements, a symbol of three years of resilience, growth and passion.
"I feel very overwhelmed and it is incredibly humbling," she said on receiving her award.
"When I applied, my family and everyone I have worked for got behind me. I wanted to win this for them."
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Looking to the future, Holly aims to run her own farm and is passionate about making the industry more accessible to newcomers. She believes in the power of knowledge sharing, innovation and collaboration, whether through share farming, academic partnerships, or open conversations. Her vision includes integrating public engagement into farm life, helping to build trust and transparency between farmers and the wider community.
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