Strong Market Performance Continues

The strong demand for British wool in the second half of 2025 has continued into 2026. We have seen further improvement and clearances have been high. This will be welcome news to all our members. With the improved prices set to support improved member returns this year.

Since September, values have risen by by 40%. Average auction prices are now at the highest level since 2015.

Andrew Hogley, CEO, said: “Global demand for crossbred wool is now back in balance with supply. Our colleagues in New Zealand cleared their excess wool supplies from the covid pandemic just over a year ago. This has now fed through to better prices in both the UK and New Zealand wool auctions. Global wool markets are now trading at the highest levels for many years and in real terms prices are back at pre-pandemic levels.”

Season to Date Prices and Outlook for 2026

Season-to-date our average selling prices (illustrated in Red on the chart below) are up for all core types, generally by around 15p to 20p per kg. This equates to around 40p more to members for every fleece. Latest prices are even higher (illustrated in Green on the chart below). If these prices are maintained over the last few sales of the season, average prices will continue to rise.

The higher current prices also provide a positive outlook for our members as we head into the 2026 season. Latest prices are as much as 40p to 50p per kilo higher than in the 2024 season. Which would see member returns next year increase by around £1 per fleece.

Supporting Members and Driving Demand

Andrew continued: “Our work to build brand awareness on behalf of our members is also supporting the market for British wool. Consumer research shows that our brand awareness is improving. We now have over 170 brands on our licensee scheme and specifying British wool in their products. Sales of traceable wool at a premium to the commodity market have also seen good growth over the last twelve months.

“With the market showing clear signs of improvement and higher returns this year, I encourage all members to deliver their wool. Handling more wool improves our efficiency, and allows us to invest more in driving demand from manufacturers and consumers to support member returns.”

From shearing his first sheep at just 16 to preparing for his tenth appearance on the world stage, seasoned Scottish shearer Hamish Mitchell has dedicated a lifetime to farming and the wool industry. With over three decades of competitive experience across the globe and six years as a stock manager in Scotland, his career has been shaped by hard work, pride, and a deep-rooted passion for natural fibre. As he gears up once again to represent Scotland at the World Championships – and continues his role as one of our ambassadors – he reflects on his journey, the challenges facing the industry, and the importance of championing wool in a changing world.

Can you tell us about your background in farming and the wool industry?

I started sheep shearing at 16 and have been involved with sheep ever since. For the past 6 years I’ve worked as a stock manager on a property in Scotland. I’ve also competed in shearing around the world for 33 years.

How many times have you represented Scotland in the World Champs?

This will be my tenth time taking part, although I did miss the one held in France. Having been involved so many times now, I know what it takes to prepare properly, both physically and mentally, and I’m looking forward to getting back into it again

What’s your preparation for the World Champs?

Shearing is like riding a bike – once you can do it, it stays with you. That said, you still need the fitness. To keep on top of that, I’ve started running every day and focusing on staying fit. I’ll be travelling to New Zealand at the beginning of February, and from then on, I’ll be shearing full-time in the lead-up to the competition, including competitive shearing at weekends.

How does it feel representing Scotland on the World Stage?

It’s very hard to put into words – it’s a mix of pride and emotion. Standing on that stage and seeing your family there, and knowing how proud they are of you, is a fantastic feeling. Hearing from the people who’ve backed you along the way, telling you how much you deserve to be there, makes you feel genuinely appreciated and worthy of it.

How did you first become involved with us, and what led to you becoming an ambassador?

When I was 16, I wanted to learn to shear, so I started out on a British Wool shearing course. At 19, I went to America and worked as a shepherd for a couple of years, with the aim of heading on to New Zealand. Because of that, I went on a shearing course every year for six or seven years to keep improving.

Shearing has given me a lot over the years, along with plenty of good times. The most important thing to me about being an ambassador is wanting to see things move forward and modernise. I want to be part of helping drive that progress.

What does your role as Ambassador involve on a day-to-day basis?

As an ambassador, the main thing for me is being able to relate to farmers and encourage them to deliver their wool. I’m in auction marts regularly, and through shearing I still meet a lot of farmers who’ve followed my career over the last 30 years. Farmers often look to me for advice on how wool sales are going and to hear about any new innovations in the industry.

What do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing our industry?

How many people are actually wearing wool now? To increase demand, we need more people choosing wool. Oil-based synthetic fibres are taking over, and too many folk are wearing them instead. We need to change people’s habits and get them back to wearing natural wool.

In three words, how would you sum up British Wool?

Natural, Sustainable, Origin

From the woolsheds of rural New Zealand to the world stage of competitive shearing, Matt Smith’s journey has been shaped by hard work, travel and a deep-rooted passion for the wool industry. Now farming sheep and cattle in Cornwall and representing England at the highest level, Matt combines global experience with hands-on knowledge of British farming. As one of our ambassadors, he’s committed to championing the fibre, supporting fellow farmers and helping drive the industry forward. We caught up with Matt to talk about his background, his World Championship ambitions and why he believes British wool has a strong future ahead.

Can you tell us about your background in farming and the wool industry?

I was brought up on a sheep and beef farm in New Zealand. With Dad being a shearing contractor, I was always around the woolsheds. I started having a go at shearing when I was 13. Before that, I was wool handling and pressing, just learning the ropes.

I started full-time shearing at 15 and first came over to the UK for the summer when I was 17. After that, I worked between the UK and New Zealand until I was 19, then headed over into Eastern Europe. At 20, I went to America and ended up running a seasonal crew there for 10 years which I loved.

I found travelling the world very interesting as I would be involved in, not just shearing, but day to day farming practices. I enjoyed talking to farmers about why and how they do things differently in the different environment and climates.

Whilst travelling I met my wife Pip. In 2014 we took on her family farm in Cornwall, farming Sheep and Cattle.

How many times have you represented England in the World Champs?

This is my second time representing England, which I’m really pleased about. I feel like I’ve got a bit of unfinished business this year, so I’m looking forward to getting back out there and giving it everything.

What’s your preparation for the World Champs?

It’s about getting the right balance between training, mental preparation and physical fitness – they’re two different sides of it, and both matter.

I’m really looking forward to being back in New Zealand and getting some more relevant sheep under my belt. In the weeks leading up to the World Champs, I’ll have nine competitions to go to, which should sharpen me up and get me properly ready.

How does it feel representing England the World Stage?

I’m very proud to represent England. Our kids are extremely passionate about shearing and they love their country, so seeing their dad wearing the English singlet means a lot to me and them. Hopefully it inspires them that if they work hard, one day it may be them pulling on the English singlet. That’s something I’m proud of.

How did you first become involved with British Wool, and what led to you becoming an ambassador?

When I first moved over to the UK in 2014, we held a few World Record attempts, and British Wool really got behind me and supported it – and anyone else who wanted to do something positive for the industry. That meant a lot to me, because the industry only moves forward if there’s proper backing and a bit of drive behind it.

Off the back of that, I was invited to run some shearing courses down South. Taking on this role has given me the chance to make sure people are getting the right information and that standards are kept where they should be.

From your perspective, what makes British wool (fibre) special and worth championing?

We’ve got a real mix of breeds in our wool flock here in Britain, which means we’ve got a place in the market for all those different types. It gives us a wide range of wool to work with and a good variety of product to offer.

What do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing our industry?

The main challenge is getting it into the market. I do think we’re coming to the end of the negativity around wool, which is encouraging.

If we can find a more cost-effective way of turning it into finished goods, I believe we’ll see more people using it. At the minute, it’s very much seen as a premium product because of the cost of production, and that can put some buyers off. Bringing those costs down would open the door to a much wider market.

Are there particular opportunities you’re excited about for the future of British wool (fibre)?

The bedding sector is really starting to take off, and that’s exciting to see. There’s growing interest, and once people try the product and see the benefits for themselves, it more or less sells itself.

We held depot open days last year – why do you feel these events are important for both farmers and the public?

We both need the chance to see both sides of the production process, from farm right through to the finished product. It’s a really positive story to tell, especially with the Royal Visit showing there’s strong backing behind wool.

The more people who see that and understand it, the better. Positive word of mouth goes a long way, and once it starts spreading, it builds momentum of its own.

How can farmers make the most of British Wool’s services and support?

We probably just have to accept that, at the minute, wool isn’t always going to be financially beneficial. That’s the reality of it. Markets go in cycles, and we’re in a tougher spell right now.

But that doesn’t mean it hasn’t got value. It’s still a quality, natural product with a strong story behind it. Sometimes you have to take the longer view and keep backing it, improving it and finding better markets. If we keep pushing it in the right direction, the returns will come back around in time.

What’s the most rewarding part of being an ambassador?

It’s about setting a few records straight and being open to talking with farmers. Now that people know the role I’m in, they’ll often come up to me with questions. I’m able to give them straight answers, and if I don’t know the answers, I know the right people to ask.

That bit of communication is important – if people understand what’s going on and why, it clears up a lot of confusion.

In three words, how would you sum up British Wool?

Growing, Challenged, Innovative

Interview with Wool Handling World Champ, Rosie Keenan

Humble and quietly formidable, Rosie Keenan, the three-time Wool Handling World Champion, is still coming to terms with just how much she has achieved. From balancing motherhood, her duties as a board member, and international competition. Rosie opens up about what it’s really like to be a World Champ, represent her country on the world stage, and chase excellence not just for herself, but for her family too.

You are the current individual Wool Handling World Champion – tell us how being the World Champion for the last 3 years has been for you?

I am actually very humble and shy away from it whenever it is brought up, as I can’t believe it’s actually me! It seems like a long time ago, my life has changed so much since. I have a family now and I don’t work at the graft as much anymore. I am really proud of myself and to see how proud other people are of me, especially my family, it still doesn’t feel real.

How does it feel to represent your country at the World Championships?

I am proud, I wasn’t going to do it originally and thought about retiring at the top. I decided I wanted to go for it for my family – we will do this! It will be excellent if I could retain my title but I’d also be incredibly chuffed to hand it over to someone else who would be equally as deserving. It’s a big thing to pass your title onto someone else as much as it is to retain it. I will still try and own it and am aiming to win, but also knowing the success and achievement someone else may feel – that is a good feeling.

What is your preparation ahead of the World Championships?

I will be travelling over to New Zealand solo, and I will then be training over there. I will do some courses, shows and some work over there to prepare myself. Just really focus – as you don’t just need physical training, you need mindset training too. Which at the moment, I have lost completely. Travelling on my own will enable me to focus on this, however I do wish my family was coming too. On mindset – you need to believe in yourself. Tell yourself you are going to do it and get rid of all distractions. It’s going to be harder this time round as New Zealand will be very strong and on home ground. The wool handler that has qualified for New Zealand is elite level and tough competition.

What would it mean to you if you retained your World Title?

It would be even more incredible than last time round. I know its going to be tougher as I had the advantage last time round being on home soil, and New Zealand is just coming to the end of their show season so will be more prepared and top of their game. If I were to win and bring that home to my family, it would mean the world to me.

How long will you be out in New Zealand for, and tell us about the competition season last year that led to your qualification?

I will be in New Zealand for about a month in total. I wasn’t going to do the competition season this year – the circuit closed on the 10^th of May and I decided to enter at 4pm that day. Henry said to me, “I believe you can do it, so go for it”. It was tough as you have to do 5 out of 8 shows and living so far north there was no way logistically or financially, I could go to all the shows. I did the bare minimum – there were a couple of other girls that were doing very well. Thankfully I went into the first show and won it. 2^nd show, won it. 3^rd show, I didn’t do as well. The decider came down to the last show, and I was ill the day before with anxiety – I was terrified. These girls that had never been a threat before were suddenly a threat, it could have gone either way. Thankfully it worked in my favour.

How do you manage to juggle being a mum and a World Champion?

As a mum, you are a role model and being a World Champion, you are a role model too. I rely a lot on Granny and the support network of my family. Saying that, it gives me more fuel as I am not just doing it for me now. You want them to look up to you and say, “I want to do that!”. As soon as my daughter is old enough to go out and do the graft herself, I want her to think, “I want to be a World Champion like mummy”.

Are your children looking at following in your footsteps?

I would absolutely love it if they did. I am heartbroken the family aren’t travelling with me this year, however there is a lot on at home so it’s the right thing to do. Henry is a shearer too – he has travelled the world and has all the stories to tell like me. I would love her to go use her brains, but farming/shearing is a way of life – the stories you can tell your friends and family and the life skills you get – I would love her to follow our footsteps. As soon as she is aware of a sheep and knows how to handle one, I will introduce her to wool handling. It’s in her blood and it’s amazing how she is picking up the life on a farm.

I feel like I’ve worked my way up – I was 17 when I started. I am still in the industry, in a corporate way too by being on the Board. I find the wool industry still a very important part of my life.

Photo credit

Photos 1-3: Lucy Stewart

Meet your World Championship teams

The Golden Shears 2026 World Shearing and Wool Championships’ will take place in New Zealand from 4–7 March. We are proud to sponsor the teams travelling from England, Scotland and Wales. Find out more about each of the teams.

With a lifetime rooted in sheep farming and wool handling, Rosie brings a practical, hands-on perspective as our board member for Scottish Northern. Raised in Perthshire and shaped by years, working in wool sheds across the UK and overseas. Her journey through shearing, shepherding and farming has given her a deep understanding of the fibre and the people behind it.

Now farming in Sutherland alongside her family, and representing members across the Scottish North. She is a strong advocate for British wool, championing its value, versatility and the farmers who produce it. In this Q&A, Rosie shares her background, insights into the industry, and what drives her role on our board.

Can you tell us about your background in farming and the wool industry? 

I was raised in Perthshire, Scotland and grew up around sheep. My father is from New Zealand and worked as a sheep shearer. The wool industry was always part of my world. I first got properly involved by going to work alongside him and it was on a trip to Norway that I really caught the bug. From there I began travelling to New Zealand to work in the wool sheds as a Rousie, building skills season by season. I followed a fairly nomadic pattern following the shearing season from Scotland to Norway to New Zealand and Australia. While also fitting in contract lambing work back home. 

When Covid hit, it felt like the right moment to put down roots, and I took the opportunity to get myself a team of working dogs and go shepherding. I worked as a contract shepherd in Northumberland managing a breeding flock of Romney ewes.  In 2023, I moved to Sutherland in the north of Scotland, where my partner Henry had a Croft running Belted Galloway cows and Cheviot ewes. Since then, we have had a family and built the flock up and now run both a hill flock and a Croft based flock of Cheviot ewes.  

How did you first become involved with British Wool, and what led to you becoming a board member? 

I’ve always been closely connected to British Wool through my wool handling career. The farmers I worked for consistently sent their wool through the system. It was very much part of the industry I grew up and worked in. While shepherding in Northumberland I took the opportunity to work seasonally as a field officer. This fitted well alongside my work and gave me a deeper understanding of the organisation. In the winter of 2022, I also worked in the Galashiels depot on the floor. Broadening my experience further by seeing the processing and logistics side of the operation.  

After moving to Sutherland, the board member role for the North became available. I jumped at the chance. Through my achievements as a wool handler, I was already an ambassador and becoming more involved. This felt like a natural progression. Standing for the board gave me the opportunity not only to represent the wool industry but also to be a strong voice for farmer which is something I care deeply about. 

What does your role as board member involve on a day-to-day basis? 

My role involves being an approachable point of contact for farmer members. I spend a lot of time listening to their concerns, answering questions and offering practical advice. I also keep up to date with developments within the company including internal updates, wool auctions and how the market is performing. Overall, it is about acting as a link between British Wool and farmers, sharing information both ways, representing members views and helping ensure they feel supported and confident about the wool they produce. 

From your perspective, what makes British wool (fibre) special and worth championing? 

British wool is a natural, renewable fibre that’s produced as part of everyday sheep farming. It has performance qualities that synthetic fibres simply can’t match. It’s durable, breathable and incredibly versatile with uses ranging from clothing to carpets and insulation. What really matters to me is the people behind it. British wool represents our farmers, landscapes and generations of stockmanship. It’s a fibre with a strong story behind it and that’s exactly why it’s worth championing. 

What do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing our industry? 

One of the biggest challenges is that wool is consistently undervalued, despite the time, cost and expertise required from farmers to produce it. At the same time the industry is competing with cheap synthetic fibres. Even though wool offers clear environmental and performance benefits. Together these pressures make it more important than ever that the value of wool is properly recognised and supported from farm level through to the end consumer. 

Are there particular opportunities you’re excited about for the future of British wool (fibre)? 

I am really excited about the growing focus on natural, sustainable fibres and the move away from plastics. The fibre has a huge potential in areas like insulation, interiors and durable textiles where performance and sustainability really matter. There is also a real opportunity to better tell the story behind the fibre. Connecting consumers with the farmers that sit behind British wool.   

We held our depot open days last year– why do you feel these events are important for both farmers and the public? 

Depot open days are important because they create transparency and understanding. It is a chance go see first hand what happens to their wool after it leaves the farm. How the depot team grades, packs and prepares it and gives farmers the opportunity to ask questions directly. 

How can farmers make the most of British Wool’s services and support? 

Farmers can get the most of out of us by engaging with their local representatives, asking questions and making use of the advice available. Staying informed and getting involved helps ensure farmers are supported and we hear their voices

What’s the most rewarding part of being a board member? 

The most rewarding part is being able to represent farmers and give them a voice within the company. Knowing I can help feed practical experience from the farm into decision making and support producers in getting the best possible outcome for their wool, makes the role genuinely worthwhile. 

Do you have a favourite memory or proudest moment during your time at British Wool? 

My proudest moment when farmers elected me to be on the board. It meant a great deal to know that farmers trusted me to represent them. I am also proud to bring a younger voice with strong, hands-on experience. Having that fresh perspective alongside practical knowledge is valuable and it is a privilege to represent our wool producers. 

In this Q&A, we speak with Richard Spencer, our board member for English Central. His farming roots lie in the Midlands and whose career has been shaped by a lifelong commitment to sheep farming and the wool industry. From working directly on the farm to representing members at board level. Richard shares insights into his journey with us, the responsibilities of leadership. The importance of championing British wool as a natural, sustainable fibre. The discussion also explores current industry challenges, the value of farmer engagement, and what we represent for the future of the sector.

Can you tell us about your background in farming and the wool industry?

I started life farming on a mixed farm in the Midlands, and sheep have always been a big part of what we do. We also ran cattle for many years, but in 2009 we made the decision to sell the cows and focus our time and effort on sheep instead. Since then, sheep farming has really been at the heart of the business. Wool has always been a by-product I’ve had a strong interest in. Over the years, you get to understand how important wool is to the industry, not just as a product but as part of the whole sheep enterprise.

How did you first become involved with us, and what led to you becoming a board member?

I first got involved when I noticed there was no Derbyshire delegate on the Central Committee. It felt like a gap that needed filling. So I put my name forward, mainly to make sure local farmers had a voice. Much to my surprise, I was then elected Chairman. Even more unexpectedly, when a vacancy came up on the Board, I was asked to step into that role. Honestly, it was never something I’d imagined for myself. But I saw it as a chance to represent fellow farmers, stand up for the value of wool. Also giving something back to the industry that’s been such a big part of my working life.

What does your role as board member involve on a day-to-day basis?

On a day-to-day basis, it’s about keeping myself informed and staying connected. I keep up to date with all communications through my iPad. Follow what’s happening across the sheep industry. Keep a close eye on market trends and issues affecting members. Just as importantly, I spend a lot of time listening to what farmers are saying at grassroots level. The concerns they raise, the challenges they’re facing, and the ideas they put forward.

A key part of the role is making sure those real-life observations from the farm gate don’t just stay there. I see it as my responsibility to feed that information back to head office. Pushing for responses that are both practical and timely. Farmers need clear answers and effective action. I work hard to ensure decisions are made quickly and with the interests of producers firmly in mind.

From your perspective, what makes British wool (fibre) special and worth championing?

What really makes British wool special is the phenomenal attention to detail that goes into producing and marketing it as a high-quality product. From the farm right through to the finished market. There’s a huge amount of care taken to make sure what we’re selling is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a natural, sustainable fibre with a wide range of uses. It’s something we should be proud of. When it’s presented properly and marketed well, British wool can stand shoulder to shoulder with any fibre in the world, and that’s well worth championing.

What do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing our industry?

One of the biggest challenges we face is making sure all the wool produced on farms comes back through our doors. The more wool that’s collected and marketed through us. The stronger and more viable the organisation remains. If we want British Wool to continue delivering value for members. We need farmers fully engaged and confident in the system. Ensuring good returns, clear communication. Trust in the process is absolutely key to keeping the whole industry moving forward.

We held our depot open days last year – why do you feel these events are important for both farmers and the public?

While I fully accept that open day’s place extra demands on an already highly committed team. I firmly believe they are well worth the effort. They give our suppliers and customers the chance to see first-hand the attention to detail. The sheer dedication that goes on behind the scenes. It helps people appreciate the work done at head office and depots to present wool to the market in the best possible way. For the public in particular, it opens eyes to just how versatile British wool is. How undervalued it often has been, despite being a natural, sustainable product with huge potential.

How can farmers make the most of our services and support?

The simplest and most effective way farmers can support us — and benefit — is by bringing all of their wool to through our depots and collection centres. By doing so, they help strengthen the organisation, improve consistency of supply, and ensure we remain viable for the future. The more wool that comes through the system, the better positioned we are to market it effectively and secure the best possible returns for producers.

What’s the most rewarding part of being a board member?

The most rewarding part, for me, is finally feeling that I’m in a position where I can do something about issues that have been giving me concern for many years. As a farmer, you often see problems at ground level but feel a step removed from the decisions. Being on the board means I can now raise those concerns, help shape discussions, and work towards practical solutions that genuinely make a difference for farmers and the wider industry.

Do you have a favourite memory or proudest moment during your time at here?

It may sound a little strange, but my proudest moment was the sense of honour — and genuine disbelief — when the entire committee placed their trust in me and asked me to represent them in such an important role. Knowing that fellow farmers had that level of faith in me was both humbling and motivating, and it’s something I don’t take lightly. It reinforces why I do the job and who I’m there to represent.

In three words, how would you sum up British Wool?

Protecting our heritage.

We have recently published new independent research into the performance of wool and sleep. This was carried out by Bangor University and funded by the Welsh Government.

The study compared wool duvets with synthetic and feather-and-down alternatives under controlled conditions designed to reflect a full night’s sleep. The results showed that wool performed significantly better. Maintaining a more stable sleeping temperature and moving moisture away from the body much more effectively, particularly as temperatures increased. Both of these factors are key to helping the body regulate its temperature overnight.

These findings are particularly relevant, with almost one in five UK adults saying they wake every night because they feel too hot or too cold. While 79% report experiencing this at least once a week.

Commenting on the research, Graham Clark, Director of Marketing, said:

“For many people, the benefits of sleeping under wool are already well understood — it’s a natural fibre that works with the body rather than against it. What this research provides is robust, independent evidence to support what we have known for some time. Despite its proven performance, wool still accounts for a relatively small share of the bedding market. By clearly communicating these benefits to consumers, there is a real opportunity to grow demand for wool products, strengthen the market and deliver better long-term returns for our members.”

The research forms part of a wider consumer-focused campaign highlighting the benefits of wool for sleep and has been shared with both UK and international partners.

We’re pleased to announce our full programme of shearing and wool handling courses for 2026, which will go live on 9 February. Between April and August, more than 100 courses will run across the UK. These courses cover machine shearing, blade shearing, and wool handling, with training available for all levels of experience. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your skills, our courses help you progress with confidence in a supportive, hands-on learning environment.

Training Built for Real Life in the Shed

Our courses build strong shearing technique from the outset. From day one, training focuses on working safely and efficiently in real shed conditions. Specifically, it covers:

• Health and safety in the shearing shed

• Setting up the shearing environment

• Equipment selection and maintenance

• Shearing technique and wool care

As a result, participants gain practical, real-world knowledge that translates directly into everyday work. The training structure supports a wide range of goals – from improving your own flock shearing, to building a career in the industry, or progressing to high-level and international competition standards. Each course is delivered by experienced instructors, who bring extensive industry knowledge and hands-on expertise, ensuring learners develop good habits from the very beginning.

Course Levels & Accreditation

We offer training for everyone, from complete beginners through to advanced shearers:

• Blue Seal training for beginners

• Gold Seal progression for advanced shearers

• Machine shearing and wool handling courses for all trainee levels

All courses carry international recognition and help participants achieve accredited skills that are respected across the industry. Whether your goal is to improve farm performance, gain confidence handling equipment, or work towards competitive shearing standards, there is a course tailored to your needs.

Subsidised Training for Young Farmers

In addition, we’re proud to partner with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), CFfI Cymru/Wales YFC, Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs (SAYFC), and the Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster (YFCU) to provide subsidised training for Young Farmers Club members. Now in its eighth year, this collaboration offers 50% off shearing and wool handling courses for affiliated YFC members.

Discounted course rates for YFC members (valid 2 February–30 April 2026):

• Shearing course: £115 + VAT

• Wool handling course: £42 + VAT

Meanwhile, non-members can still book at £230 + VAT, offering excellent value for small-group tuition and expert instruction.

How to Register

To register your interest, complete the online form on our website – click here

Secure your place today and take the next step in your shearing journey.

We are once again partnering with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), CFfl Cymru/Wales YFC, Scottish Association of Young Farmers Club (SAYFC) and Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster (YFCU). Providing subsidised shearing and wool handling training for Young Farmers Club (YFC) members across the UK.

Now in its eighth consecutive year. This collaboration continues to support young farmers by offering a 50% discount on our shearing and wool handling courses for affiliated YFC members. The discount applies to machine shearing, blade shearing, and wool handling courses. Making this training accessible at every stage of a young farmer’s shearing journey.

What the Training Includes

Our two-day shearing courses and one-day wool handling courses run nationwide and focus on the core principles of effective and efficient shearing. Attendees receive hands-on training designed to improve technique. While emphasising animal welfare, correct use of shearing equipment, and maintaining safety in the shearing shed. With small-group instruction and expert guidance, participants can develop confidence and skill in a supportive learning environment.

Who Can Apply

This discounted training is open to absolute beginners, as well as intermediate and advanced shearers. We encourage Young Farmers to continue developing their skills through further training opportunities and progression routes. Whether they are preparing to shear their own flock, pursue a career in shearing, or compete at higher levels.

How to Access the Discount

YFC members can access the exclusive discounted rate by registering between 2 February and 30 April 2026:

Shearing course: £115 + VAT

Wool handling course: £42 + VAT

Non-members can still attend at the standard price of £230 + VAT, which remains excellent value for high-quality, small-group tuition delivered by experienced instructors.

To register your interest, please contact your local YFC group. Full course details and booking information will be published on our website on 2 February.