The Next Generation Wool Symposium

Young sheep farmers wanting to learn more about what happens to their flock’s fleeces once they leave the farm gates are invited to join an interesting tour and discussion event next month as part of the National Sheep Association’s (NSA) Next Generation programme.

The new NSA Next Generation and British Wool ‘Wool Symposium’ will offer up to 12 young people aged from 18 to 35 the opportunity to go ‘behind the scenes’ at British Wool’s Bradford Headquarters, viewing activities from the wool sorting and grading process to the live auction of wool to bidders from across the globe.

The visit, from Monday 17^th to Tuesday 18^th October, will also include a fascinating trip to the Haworth Scouring plant where raw fleeces are transformed into pristine fibres ready for manufacturing into goods.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “This is a further exciting addition to our NSA Next Generation programme this year. The process undertaken to turn the fleece from the sheep’s back into one ready to be made into all manner of goods on an industrial scale is truly a fascinating thing to view. This is a trip that will suit those who really value the benefits wool has to offer and that are ready to engage in discussion on how the market for wool can be sustained and grown once again.”

Following the insightful visits and an overnight stay and meal in Bradford, all generously sponsored by British Wool, the group attending will come together again for a ‘Symposium’, an opportunity to discuss their own thoughts on the future of wool with British Wool staff.

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Communication at British Wool says: “British Wool looks forward to welcoming members of NSA Next Generation to Bradford to learn more about the work of British Wool and also on the wool process. We’ve worked with many NSA groups in the recent years and feel it’s important to engage with the next generation of sheep farmers because as a member organisation, everything we do is about adding value to our members. The NSA Next Generation programme is key to the future of our industry.”

Those interested in applying to join the free trip can complete a short application form on the NSA Next Generation website or fill in the form at the bottom of this page.

Applications to join the group are open from Wednesday 14^th September until 5pm on Monday 3^rd October.

Terms and Conditions for the trip can also be found on the NSA website.