British Wool has relaunched a discounted shearing course offer to members of the National Federation of Young Farmers Club (NFYFC).

The beginner shearing course will span across two days and cover all aspects of the shearing season, including health and safety, the use of shearing equipment and hands-on practice to develop shearing techniques.

The course also gives NFYFC members the opportunity to work towards gaining a Blue Seal award.

The British Wool offer is open to NFYFC members who have not previously attended a British Wool course, and they will pay a discounted price of £87.50 (plus VAT) instead of the normal cost of £175 (plus VAT) for the course.

Wool handling

British Wool said that excellent fleece presentation starts at shearing, but that the work of the wool handler is equally important in ensuring wool is presented correctly and to a high standard.

Because of this, the organisation is extending its training offer for NFYFC members to participate in its wool handling course.

The one-day course will be delivered by a wool handler at a discounted price of £60 plus VAT.

Shearing manager at British Wool, Richard Schofield, said: “We are once again delighted to be working with NFYFC in supporting the training and development of the next generation of shearers and look forward to welcoming young farmers onto our courses once again this year. 

“I’d encourage any interested YFC member to contact the NFYFC before the March 31, 2023, closing date.”

Lori-Jo Sharp of Cartmel YFC said: “Having done the machine shearing course with British Wool, I found it was very well organised and set up.

“Roger our instructor explained and showed the steps very clearly, we had two days of training and practicing. I went on to achieve my Bronze Seal award.

“Overall, I was very pleased and happy with how the course was run. Highly recommend.”