The opening of a state-of-the-art Centre for Pig Industry Training at Bishop Burton College marks the start of an exciting new partnership between the college and White Rose Farms Ltd.
White Rose Farms, part of Cranswick’s farming business, is the latest industry partnership established by the college. The partnership will support the college in preparing students for the world of work, as they study for vocational and technical qualifications. This new venture represents an opportunity for business and education to work together to support the skills and learning of the next generation of pig farmers.
Managing Director of White Rose Farms and former Bishop Burton student, Rick Buckle was keen to work with the college on this enterprise. “Supporting young people to develop the experience, knowledge and skills to become the accomplished pig farmers of the future is incredibly rewarding for our organisation. With its continued investment in the future of agriculture, Bishop Burton is the ideal partner for White Rose Farms. Their commitment to advancing the pig industry marries perfectly with our own objectives to widen interest and participation in the pig farming sector.”
The day-to-day management of the Centre for Pig Industry Training falls jointly to Bishop Burton’s Colin Brighton, Pig Unit Manager and Daniel Barnes, Breeding Herd Manager (Northern), of White Rose Farms. Daniel is also a former student of the college. Colin and Daniel worked closely together in the lead up to the opening of the farrowing facility, which has been designed to leverage technologies and modern practices to maximise production in an ethical and sustainable manner.
The £1 million centre houses a herd of 300 sows and offers the very latest in farrowing facilities; providing 50% more space than existing conventional systems. The pigs will be reared to Red Tractor Assured standards. Daniel and White Rose will be constantly on hand to provide support and advice to ensure excellent housing, nutrition and sanitation standards are maintained to support the health and wellbeing of the pigs.
Daniel commented “We’ve worked closely with Bishop Burton to ensure the very highest standards of welfare for the animals. It’s exciting to be part of such a modern venture; working in a state-of-the-art environment to further the future of our industry.”
Colin said “Collaborating with White Rose Farms is a fantastic opportunity for the college. Their expertise introduces a fresh perspective, exposing students to a commercial farrowing environment and their business’s wealth of knowledge and understanding of the pig industry. I am passionate about pig-husbandry and thrilled to play a part in inspiring our students with that same enthusiasm, supporting them to embark on rewarding careers in the sector.”
Principal and Chief Executive of Bishop Burton Bill Meredith commented “Partnerships with employers such as White Rose Farms are essential to the college, enabling us to provide students with access to sector-specific best practice, expertise and experience. I am delighted we have developed this relationship and look forward to seeing the beneficial impact it will undoubtedly have on our students.”