THE next generation of land-based professionals have been recognised at Wiltshire College & University Centre after another successful year of hands-on learning, practical achievement and industry-focused training at Lackham campus.

From caring for livestock and growing plants to driving tractors, servicing agricultural machinery and gaining valuable industry experience, students have spent the past year developing the practical skills and knowledge needed for careers across agriculture, horticulture and land-based engineering.

Their achievements were celebrated at the College’s annual Land-based Studies awards, where students from Agriculture, Horticulture and Land-based Engineering were recognised for their academic excellence, practical skills, personal development and work experience before coming together with staff for a summer barbecue to mark the end of another successful academic year.

Among those recognised was Level 2 Agriculture student Josh Patel, from Dauntsey, who received the Top Academic award after an impressive year both in the classroom and on the farm. During the year, Josh also passed his tractor licence after completing training at Lackham, describing it as one of his biggest achievements.

T Level Land-based Engineering student Xander Hosey was recognised for an outstanding year, receiving both the Top Academic and Most Improved awards after excelling in practical workshop sessions and assessments.

Agriculture student Bessie Law was also celebrated after being named Most Improved, having developed her confidence through hands-on learning with the College’s livestock.

For T Level Agriculture student Harry Blakeney, one of the highlights of studying at Lackham has been the opportunity to learn in a real working farm environment.

Harry said: “We’ve learned so many new skills. Having the farm here means we’re out learning rather than spending all our time in the classroom.”

Land based engineering lecturer Fred Gwinnett said the enthusiasm and commitment shown by students throughout the year had been a pleasure to see.

“The students have been really engaged and have embraced everything we’ve put in front of them,” he said. “Whether it’s working with machinery, livestock or in the classroom, they’ve shown a real willingness to learn and develop their skills.

“It’s especially rewarding to see students growing in confidence and leaving with the practical experience they’ll need for the next stage of their careers.”

Across the department, awards recognised students for achievements in academic study, practical excellence, work experience and personal development, reflecting the wide range of skills developed throughout the year across agriculture, horticulture and land-based engineering.

Agriculture lecturer Sam Johnson said practical learning remains at the heart of preparing students for careers in the industry.

“We’re training the next generation of farmers and land-based professionals, so practical experience is essential,” he said. “Students leave Lackham with real industry skills, supported by experienced staff and excellent facilities that reflect modern agriculture.”

As another academic year comes to a close, many of the students recognised at the awards will now progress into employment, apprenticeships or the next stage of their studies, taking with them the knowledge, confidence and practical experience developed during their time at Lackham.

The celebrations concluded with a summer barbecue, giving students and staff the opportunity to reflect on another successful year and celebrate everything they had achieved together.

Interested in a career in agriculture, horticulture or land-based engineering?

Explore our Land-based Studies courses and discover how hands-on learning at Lackham can help you build the skills employers are looking for.