The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) Scholars Programme is now open and NFYFC is working with the Worshipful Company of Farmers (WCF) to offer two scholarships for eligible YFC members.
The OFC Scholars’ programme allows scholars to attend the conference, which is on 7-9 January 2026, as well as providing access to a series of online bespoke webinars.
The offer aims to give young people in the early stages of their career the opportunity for peer-to-peer networking and to share views and ideas, while gaining access to key skills development training.
The programme welcomes a broad diversity of individuals and applicants from outside of the agriculture sector.
Scholars should be aged under 30 years and have not previously attended the conference and be aware of pre-conference training opportunities.
The theme for next year's conference is Growing Resilience and will explore what’s coming next and how to ensure people, farm businesses and the environment grow and develop in a resilient manner.
As the conference celebrates its 90th year, content at the event will focus on the sector’s ability to adapt in an ever-changing world and look at the opportunities ahead for current and future generations. There will be a chance for reflection too, with a look back at the first OFC in 1936.
Hannah Rees from Pembrokeshire (pictured above) was a scholar in 2025 and urged other YFC members to apply for the opportunity.
“I’d recommend anyone apply for the scholarship. Remember YFC is for Everyone and your status doesn’t matter,” said Hannah. “Everyone at OFC is treated the same whether you’re a young farmer, CEO or Tom Bradshaw! It really was an experience of a lifetime. Say yes to every opportunity and say yes to engaging in every conversation.”
To be considered for a scholarship, YFC members should email a copy of their CV, including their YFC membership number, and additional information stating their reasons for applying to NFYFC‘s AGRI Manager Sarah Palmer.
Please submit applications by 31 August 2025.
