DCG Success Stories

All Derby College agricultural apprentice Archie Wensley has ever wanted to do is be a farmer.

The 16-year-old from Kimberly in Nottinghamshire, loves tractors and working outdoors so, as soon as he left school, he joined Broomfield Hall’s level 2 agriculture course.

Through college Archie got a work placement with local farm and equestrian centre, Swingate Farm and, after seeing his potential, owner Matt Blant took him on as an apprentice.

Archie said: “I like it. I get to do a bit of everything and every day is different. There’s a lot of variety and I don’t mind being out in all weathers.

Swingate is an equestrian centre as well as a 130-acre farm growing re-seeded grass to produce good quality hay. I get to drive the tractor and I also help with hay deliveries.

One of the best parts of the job is working with the animals. There are a few cows and sheep and I’ve been helping with fencing the sheep pen.”

Matt, who has provided work experience to Broomfield agricultural students for more than a decade, is pleased with Archie’s progress.

He added: “He’s a good lad – always keen and willing to learn. Enthusiasm is a good place to start. I offered Archie an apprenticeship as I can he’s got potential.

“Farming’s getting more and more technical so there’s a lot to learn. The tractors we use now are more like rolling computers.”

Archie, whose great grandparents were farmers, hopes to remain with Matt when his apprenticeship finishes or work at another farm near his home.

He added: “I’m pleased to have moved on to an agricultural apprenticeship at Swingate Farm. My tutors at Broomfield have been great and I like everything about my agricultural course at Derby College.

It’s all good. Everyone works well together and we help each other out on jobs like baling straw.”