Breaking Into Farming Without a Background
At just 25 years old, Ben Rowson Jones is building a reputation in an industry he didn’t grow up in – yet one he now travels the world to be part of. His journey into agriculture wasn’t inherited; it was built from the ground up through curiosity, determination, and a willingness to learn the hard way.
Growing up in north Derbyshire, Ben had no family ties to farming. Shearing sheep wasn’t even on his radar – until a weekend job on a local dairy farm at 14 changed everything. That first taste of farm life opened a door, and Ben stepped straight through it.
Learning the Hard Way: Early Shearing Challenges
At 18, Ben bought three Ryeland ewes of his own and decided to try shearing. With no formal training, he used blade shears – and quickly realised how difficult it really was.
“The result? A nightmare,” he admits.
After several frustrating seasons using both blade and battery shears, Ben recognised that if he wanted to improve, he needed proper training. That decision led him to British Wool shearing courses.
A Turning Point: Discovering Professional Training
Signing up for his first course in January 2024 marked a major shift in Ben’s journey. The experience was physically demanding, but also deeply rewarding.
As Ben puts it, “the best things in life are never easy.”
By the end of the course, he had earned his blue seal – an important milestone – and, more importantly, the confidence that he was on the right path.
Building Skills and Confidence
That first course provided more than just basic knowledge. Ben developed a strong foundation in shearing patterns, equipment handling, and sheep control. It also sparked a deeper passion for the craft.
“I’d definitely caught the bug,” he says.
Learning from Experienced Instructors
A key part of Ben’s early progress came from the instructors. Their ability to simplify complex techniques – such as footwork, positioning, and rhythm – made learning accessible without being overwhelming.
Looking back, Ben recognises that their guidance was built on years of hands-on experience in the industry.
Like any physically demanding skill, shearing came with challenges. But over time, Ben found that small technical adjustments made a significant difference.
Refining his footwork and positioning improved his flow around the sheep, reducing strain and increasing efficiency. Conversations with instructors also introduced more advanced insights, from selecting the right combs to fine-tuning equipment setups.
From Local Beginner to Global Shearer
Since that first course, Ben’s progress has accelerated. Now holding a silver seal and working towards gold, he has completed two seasons in New Zealand – widely regarded as one of the world’s shearing heartlands.
He has also travelled extensively across the UK, becoming part of a tight-knit, hardworking global shearing community.
Future Goals: Growing a Shearing Career
Today, Ben is focused on expanding his own shearing run while continuing to work with local contractors. Competitive shearing is another major ambition, with plans to enter as many shows as possible during the 2026 season.
For those new to the industry, Ben highlights competitions as a valuable opportunity for growth. Not only do they help improve skills, but they also provide a supportive and familiar environment.
Many course instructors also serve as judges, and for Ben, seeing familiar faces in competitions helped build confidence and ease nerves.
A Journey Built on Persistence
From struggling through his first shearing attempts to working internationally, Ben Rowson Jones’ story is one of persistence, growth, and seizing opportunity.
It’s a powerful reminder that you don’t need a farming background to succeed in agriculture – just the drive to learn, the resilience to keep going, and the courage to start.
