Nathanial Watkins from Gloucestershire successfully applied for a £750 training grant from the Worshipful Company of Farmers last year as part of the exclusive YFC offer. Nathanial chose a DIY Artificial Insemination (AI) course through Synergy Farm Health in Dorset to help him build his skills in the sector.
“This qualification now means that I am Defra qualified to safely and legally serve cows on farm,” said Nathanial who enjoyed learning about the theory and legalisation, as well as the practical side. “We moved on to practice on abattoir demonstrations on the first day, which gave us the skills and knowledge for us to go out onto farm on day two and three to practice with some barren cows.”
Nathanial works on a dairy farm in Gloucestershire alongside studying for his degree and says the course has given him another essential skill.
“This course has allowed me to not only serve cows but gain a greater level of understanding of the anatomy and learn more on farm about the breeding decisions that drive a herd’s genetic progression.
“Successful AI technique is one of the most difficult skills I have ever tried to master, and I am nowhere near mastering it even now! The course isn’t designed to make you a pro, just say you can safely and legally serve cows," said Nathanial.
“What’s left to do now is practice, and practice, and practice, and one day the speed will follow.”
Nathanial applied for the training grant in 2025 and was fortunate to be chosen as one of the recipients of the grant, allowing him to further his career.
“I would like to thank the Worshipful Company of Farmers and NFYFC for the opportunity to complete this course. I’m extremely grateful for the bursary, as it takes me another step forward in the agricultural industry.”
YFC members can apply for a 2026 bursary until the end of June 2026.