AutoSpray Systems, the CAA-recognised training provider behind the UK's largest network of agricultural drone pilots, has partnered with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) to launch The Young Farmers Spray Drone Scholarship.

Backed by Defra grant funding, the nationwide initiative will offer fully funded, CAA-approved and Lantra-accredited training places to five YFC members, alongside a UK-wide educational campaign and regional field demonstrations for Young Farmers’ Clubs.

The initiative, officially launched during National Young Farmers’ Week (5-9 October 2026), aims to break down the barriers to high-tech agricultural work and gives five young people a fast-track, fully certified route into the rapidly expanding agri-drone sector. Supported by Defra grant funding, the scholarship addresses critical skills, technology adoption, and career progression priorities identified across the UK’s rural youth network.

The five selected scholars will receive a fully funded, exclusive five-day training package with a combined value of £17,500. Delivered by AutoSpray Systems – a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Recognised Assessment Entity – the course provides complete Remote Pilot Competence (RPC) flight training, Lantra professional accreditation, career-launch guidance from industry experts, and the ability to start operating commercially straight away.

Speaking on the launch of the scholarship, Robert Pearson, CEO of AutoSpray Systems, said:

"We are thrilled to be partnering with NFYFC on this landmark scholarship. Young farmers see first-hand the need for smarter, more sustainable ways to work the land, and the appetite among this generation to build careers around cutting-edge technology is immense.

"Drone spraying isn't a futuristic concept. It's happening in British fields right now. This scholarship removes the financial and regulatory hurdles so five ambitious young people can pioneer drone operations in their own regions."

Sarah Palmer, NFYFC AGRI Manager, said:

"Our partnership and collaboration projects are paving the way for young farmers to access more skills, training and career opportunities. The scholarship and training offer highlights aspects of future farming and smart technology."

Farming Minister Stephen Morgan said:

“Farming has always been an industry that looks to the future, and the next generation will be at the heart of shaping what comes next.

“That means giving young farmers the skills, confidence and opportunities to embrace new ideas and technologies, while building rewarding careers in agriculture – ultimately helping to deliver long-term plans to create a profitable and sustainable farming sector, as set out in our Farming Roadmap.

“Through our support for the NFYFC, we are helping young people access training and development opportunities that open the door to new approaches to farming.”

Highlighting the farmer perspective, Nathan Greenwood, NFYFC’s YFC AGRI Chair, added:

“Young Farmers are ambitious for the future of British agriculture and the adoption of cutting-edge agri tech has an important role to play in the future of our sector. Partnering with AutoSpray Systems on this £17.5k scholarship gives our members a direct, fully certified route into the agri-drone sector. It’s an exciting opportunity for anyone looking to future-proof their career or launch a precision contracting enterprise”

Representing the agronomy perspective, Harry Petfield, a member of NFYFC’s YFC AGRI group, noted:

"Precision technology is rapidly changing how we manage crops, and drones offer a huge step forward for targeted, low-impact applications. Partnering with AutoSpray on this scholarship is a brilliant way to give the next generation of agronomists and young farmers hands-on access to cutting-edge tools, equipping them with the practical skills needed to lead the future of sustainable farming.”

Nationwide Educational Campaign and Regional Demos

Ahead of the March 2027 training boot camp, AutoSpray Systems and NFYFC are rolling out a major online educational campaign and series of live field demonstrations across the country. Featuring a short-form video series, expert webinars, and dedicated updates, the campaign will demystify drone spraying, explore real-world agronomic use cases, the day-to-day work of a spray drone operator and demonstrate end-user demand from UK growers.

How to Apply

Applications open nationally on 6 October 2026. As part of their application, Young Farmers will be asked to pitch their personal vision for the future of British agriculture. To enter, candidates will address three core questions:

1. What Will You Build? Tell us how you plan to put your Drone Spraying and Spreading qualification to work – whether through starting a contracting business, diversifying your family farm, or pioneering precision agronomy?
2. What Will You Change? How will drone application benefit your farm, your customers, your local farming community or the environment?
3. Where Will It Take You? Why is this scholarship the right step for you now, and what impact will it have on your career in British agriculture?

Submissions will be evaluated by a joint panel representing regulation, farming, agronomy, and contracting, including AutoSpray CEO Robert Pearson, directors from ARPAS-UK, NFYFC’s YFC AGRI members Nathan Greenwood and Harry Petfield, and representatives from the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC).

For full details on the scholarship, upcoming regional demo dates, and to apply, visit autospraysystems.com/youngfarmers