British Wool shearing courses are built on one thing above all else, exceptional instructors with real shed and competition experience.

Our experienced team of instructors delivers a comprehensive training programme designed to build confidence, skill, and industry-standard technique. Running from April to August, the programme features more than 95 courses, offering a wide range of training opportunities in machine shearing, blade shearing, and wool handling. With flexible course options available, there’s something for everyone, from beginners to advanced shearers.

What the Training Covers

Our shearing courses are designed to develop best practice and strong technique from the outset. You will learn every key aspect of shearing, including:

• Health and safety requirements and safe working practices

• Preparing and managing the shearing environment

• Selecting the right equipment and maintaining it effectively

• Developing efficient shearing technique

• Ensuring high standards of wool care and handling

This training helps you build the skills needed to work safely and confidently while improving both speed and quality.

Who the Courses Are For

Our courses are internationally recognised and tailored to suit all levels of experience. They are ideal for:

• Complete beginners starting with Blue Seal training

• Intermediate learners looking to refine their technique

• Advanced shearers working towards Gold Seal accreditation

• Farmers wanting to improve efficiency when shearing their own flock

• Individuals planning a career in shearing

• Competitors preparing for high-level and international standards

Whether you are aiming to improve your day-to-day shearing skills or build a pathway into professional shearing, the training provides clear progression and structured development.

Why choose British Wool?

• Industry leading instructors

• Proven training pathway from beginner to open level

• Strong focus on technique, efficiency and animal welfare

• Certified by Highfield

Whether you’re starting out or looking to refine your skills, our courses provide the foundation, confidence, and standards needed to progress in the shearing shed.

Learn from the best. Train with British Wool.

Course Options

We offer both machine shearing and wool handling courses that cater to every trainee level. Each course is designed to deliver practical, hands-on experience with expert guidance and feedback. You’ll receive training in real-world conditions, helping you apply new skills immediately and confidently.

Book a course after the 9^th of February click here

Alternatively, for more information contact our shearing team:

Shearing Team – 01274 688666 – [email protected]

With a lifetime rooted in farming and a deep commitment to the wool industry. John Davies brings experience, passion and practical insight to his role as a British Wool board member for the Welsh Southern Region. From running a successful beef and sheep farm in South Wales to championing shearing skills and supporting the next generation of wool producers. His journey reflects the values at the heart of British Wool. In this Q&A, he shares his background, his role on the board, and his perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of British wool.

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

I have been farming my entire life. Currently running a 300-acre beef and sheep farm with my wife and son. We manage 700 ewes and also contract-rear calves. For the past 30 years, I have hosted a British Wool shearing course on my farm each year. l then represented farmers on NFU livestock board, and we were a HCC demonstration farm.

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

I have served as a county representative since 2012 and became a board member in 2019. My passion for shearing. My desire to inspire the next generation of shearers and those working in the wool industry. This drives my continued involvement.

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

My role as a board member involves acting as a key point of contact for anyone in South Wales.  Always being available to discuss matters relating to the wool industry. I regularly attend livestock markets and regional events to represent British Wool. I maintain close communication with our Brecon grading depot to stay updated on developments within the area.

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

British wool is special because it comes from a cooperative owned by its members. All of whom are committed to producing wool to an exceptionally high standard. That dedication is reflected in the quality of the fibre and the products we create, making it well worth championing

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

One of the biggest challenges facing our industry is the decline in sheep numbers. This combined with a lack of opportunities for younger generations to enter the sector. Without clear pathways, it’s becoming harder to attract new talent and ensure the industry’s future sustainability.

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

I’m excited about the growing recognition of wool as a natural, sustainable fibre. More people are becoming aware of the environmental impact of synthetic materials, particularly microplastics. Along with the long-term effects these products can have. This shift in consumer awareness presents a real opportunity for British Wool. To promote its high-quality, eco-friendly products and highlight the benefits of choosing natural fibres over synthetics. I also see potential for expanding wool into new markets. From sustainable fashion to home textiles, as demand for environmentally responsible products continues to grow.

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

Depot open days are important because they give both farmers and the public the opportunity to connect directly with British Wool. Farmers can see first-hand the journey their wool takes after it leaves the farm. Gaining insight into the grading and processing stages. The public, meanwhile, can learn about the quality and versatility of British wool products. Whilst engaging with our colleagues who showcase the fibre. These events help build understanding and appreciation of the wool industry. Strengthen relationships within the community. Highlighting the value of supporting sustainable, locally produced wool

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

Farmers can make the most of British Wool’s services by actively engaging with the organisation, as it is ultimately their industry. By participating fully—whether that’s using grading services, attending events, or keeping up to date with best practice guidance—they can help improve the quality and consistency of the wool they produce. Supporting British Wool not only helps maintain and grow the market for British fibre but also contributes to increasing the overall value of their own wool. Essentially, the more farmers get involved, the stronger the industry becomes for everyone.

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

The most rewarding part of being a board member is the opportunity to represent fellow wool producers and advocate for their interests. It’s incredibly satisfying to contribute to shaping the future of the industry and helping to build a strong, recognisable brand for British Wool. Being in this role also allows me to engage with a wide range of people—from farmers to industry partners—share knowledge, and play a part in promoting sustainable, high-quality British fibre for generations to come.

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

One of my favourite memories—and proudest moments—has been attending industry events and watching shearers compete. It’s inspiring to see their skill and dedication first-hand. Equally rewarding is the opportunity to speak with our members at these events, hearing their experiences, sharing knowledge, and seeing the enthusiasm and passion people have for British Wool. Moments like these really highlight the strength of our community and remind me why supporting and promoting the industry is so important.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I have a strong interest in sheepdog trialling, enjoying the skill and tradition behind it. I also closely follow Newcastle Emlyn Rugby Club and enjoy keeping up with their matches and supporting the club whenever possible.

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

Sustainable, Natural, Fantastic

Q&A with Chris Adamson, National Sheep Association

British sheep farming has long carried influence far beyond our own shores. From genetics to fleece quality, the reputation of the UK flock continues to shape flocks and markets around the world. Few people understand that global connection better than Chris Adamson of the National Sheep Association (NSA), whose work bridges practical flock management with industry leadership across the North of England.

Raised in the industry and now working closely with breed societies and British Wool. Chris brings both grassroots experience and a strategic perspective to conversations about sheep and wool. His recent trip to the United States, supporting the development of the Kerry Hill breed and engaging with American breeders. Offered a valuable lens on how British genetics and wool are viewed overseas.

In this Q&A, Chris reflects on his journey into the sheep sector, what he observed during his time in the USA, and why protecting breed identity and wool quality remains central to the future of British sheep farming at home and abroad.

Can you share a bit about your background and how you’re involved in the wool industry?

My involvement in the wool and sheep industry goes back to my childhood. I was introduced to sheep farming through my grandad which led me to building up my own flock and becoming deeply interested in the wider sheep sector. Wool has always been part of that journey. As a breeder I have always tried to promote the value of British wool and the important role it plays in the identity and sustainability of our native breeds.

Alongside my own flock I work for the National Sheep Association as the North of England Manager. This gives me the opportunity to work closely with a wide range of breed societies and represent the interests of sheep farmers across the region. Through that role I regularly work with British Wool and support the messages we both share around the value of UK wool, the importance of quality and the need to champion our national flock. That combination of practical experience and industry involvement has shaped the way I look at wool production both at home and internationally.

What inspired your trip to the USA, and what were your main goals for going?

I was invited by the American Kerry Hill Sheep Society to speak at their members workshop and to attend their first show at NAILE. Over the past few years, I have exported most of the embryos and semen that have entered the country since the lift of the ban which has put me in a unique position to support their breeders as they establish the breed. The Society asked me to share my knowledge not just of the Kerry Hill but of the UK sheep industry as a whole and how a breed can be developed responsibly from the outset.

I was also asked to judge the first Kerry Hill show at the North American International Livestock Exposition. I declined judging as I felt my time would be better spent supporting the breeders on the ground, helping them prepare their sheep, trimming and giving them reassurance as they entered their first major show. My main goal was to help the Society make a strong and united first impression, pass on what I have learnt through my work in the UK, and give the breeders confidence as they take the breed forward.

How would you describe your experience while you were in the USA?

The experience was fantastic from start to finish. The enthusiasm and passion from the American breeders was incredible to see. Spending time with members, visiting farms and getting to know their systems was a real privilege and it showed just how committed they are to shaping the breed in the right way.

It was also fascinating to see the wider sheep industry in the USA and how different many of their breeds look compared to the UK despite sharing the same breed names. Their show ring style is very distinct. Sheep are generally shown much taller with a very upright head carriage and a strong emphasis on stature. Many breeds are shown fully shorn apart from the legs with very little wool on display. Even where sheep are shown in wool the fleece is heavily trimmed rather than presented in what we would call a full fleece here.

From a wool point of view the interest in the Kerry Hill fleece was one of the first things breeders commented on which was encouraging to hear.

At the start of my trip, I met William Surman, the agriculture, food and drink attaché at the British Embassy. Speaking with him was extremely insightful. The USA has around five million sheep compared with our thirty-one million yet its population is roughly forty times larger. It was interesting to hear that domestic consumption in the USA is driven largely by ethnic communities which is very similar to the situation here. William was instrumental in reopening the border to British lamb and ovine germplasm in 2023 after thirty-five years of restrictions. Interestingly the majority of trade so far has been in genetics rather than meat which demonstrates how highly valued UK breeds are overseas.

What key takeaways or positives did you bring back from the trip?

Whenever I travel abroad, I find it interesting to look at how agriculture operates in different countries. I would not say there is anything I will be changing within my own flock or system but that does not mean what they do in the USA is wrong. Their breeding goals are simply different and reflect what their market demands.

The biggest positive for me was seeing how much interest there is in UK breeds. It highlights the strength of our national flock, and the trust other countries place in British genetics. With the relaxation of import rules for germplasm the United States now has a real opportunity to once again draw on high quality UK bloodlines. The process is still lengthy, expensive and demanding but it is encouraging to see British breeds being imported again and making an impact.

Another key takeaway was the unity within the American Kerry Hill Society. They have worked incredibly hard to start the breed on the right footing and the passion from members was clear to see. Their first showing at NAILE was a huge success and seeing the ring packed shoulder to shoulder proved that they made an impression on the wider sheep industry.

How do you see your experience influencing your work in the wool industry moving forward?

My trip reinforced the importance of protecting breed identity and the value of maintaining strong wool characteristics even when breeding sheep for different markets. Seeing how other countries present and select sheep makes you reflect on the strengths we have here in the UK especially around fleece quality, traditional breed type and the role British wool plays in defining our breeds.

It also reminded me how highly British genetics and British wool are regarded overseas. That is something we should be proud of and continue to promote. Although I have only covered the trip briefly in this report, I hope it has given you an insight into my experience. I would strongly encourage everyone to get off the farm and explore what is happening beyond their own gate. Whether that is visiting other farms, attending events or going to shows within the UK it is always valuable to see what others are doing and to think about what you might bring back home.

The trip has strengthened my belief that the UK continues to play a major role on the global stage and sheep breeding and wool remains a key part of our national story. It has given me fresh energy to continue championing our industry both at home and on the international stage.

Launching Ewe and Your View

We are proud to launch Ewe and Your View in collaboration with the National Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), CFfl Cymru/Wales YFC and Scottish Association of Young Farmers Club (SAYFC).This exciting new competition gives young farmers a platform to share their voice. Open to YFC members aged 18–30, the competition invites participants to create a short video of up to two minutes exploring their thoughts and experiences within the wool industry.

Competition Themes

Entrants can choose from a range of engaging themes, including what British Wool means to them, how the shearing course discount helps young farmers, ways to promote British Wool to the next generation, or why supporting the wool industry matters so much.

Key Dates to Remember

The competition launches on 7th January, giving young farmers the chance to plan, film, and submit their entries. The competition closes on Friday 23rd January, so we encourage participants to get involved early. Our judging panel will review videos during the week commencing 26th January. We will announce the winners in the week commencing 2nd February via British Wool’s farm social media channels.

Ewe and Your View offers more than a competition—it gives young farmers a chance to showcase passion, pride, and innovation within the agricultural community.

Fantastic Prizes

We are offering fantastic prizes.. The overall winner will receive a cash prize, and we may award standout entries with a free place one of our shearing courses and feature them across our social media channels to give valuable industry exposure.

Emily Ashworth from Farmers Guardian and Cammy Wilson of The Sheep Game will judge the entries. Their expertise will help them recognise originality, authenticity, and strong messaging.

If you’re a young farmer with a story to tell, Ewe and Your View gives you the chance to share your voice and help shape the future of British Wool.

This competition reflects our continued commitment to supporting the next generation of farmers. In February for the eighth year in a row, we will also continue to offer 50% off any shearing course to all young farmers, reinforcing its dedication to skills development, education, and the future success of the wool industry.

Competition Terms & Conditions

1. Promoter

British Wool promotes this competition.

2. Eligibility

• We open the competition to members of Young Farmers Clubs aged 18 years or over.

3. Competition Period

The competition opens on the 7th January and closes on the 23rd January. We will not consider entries submitted outside this period.

4. How to Enter

• To enter, participants must create a 2-minute video on the themes described.
•  Participants may submit more than one video.

5. Prize

• We cannot transfer or exchange the prize, and we do not offer a cash alternative.

6. Winner Selection & Notification

• Our judging panel will select the winner(s) from all valid entries received during the Competition Period.
• We will notify the winner(s) via social media in the week commencing 2nd February.

7. Publicity

By entering, participants agree that we may use their name and/or entry for promotional purposes without additional compensation, unless the law prohibits it.

8. Data Protection

We will use personal data solely to administer the competition in accordance with the Promoter’s privacy policy

Our Board Member for the English Central region  travelled to the USA. Richard served as a judge at the inaugural North American Hill Sheep Show, proudly representing our organisation on the international stage.

Can you share a bit about your background and how you’re involved in the wool industry?

I’m a fourth-generation farmer, with the fifth and sixth generations already following in our footsteps. Like many of my generation, my introduction to sheep came early—on a medium-sized Midlands farm with a bit of everything. One of my first jobs, at around age four, was to bottle-feed the lambs.

In the early 1970s, I studied Agriculture at Reading University, where my interest in sheep really took hold. I was fascinated by the new and emerging breeds and crossbreeds, names like ABRO Damline and Colbred (now gone), and Finn, Friesland, Cambridge, and Meatlinc, the latter developed by Henry Fell and now successfully continued by his son and grandson, George. It was an exciting time, though my focus back then had to remain on our dairy herd rather than sheep.

That changed in 2009 when the dairy herd left the farm, giving me time to direct my energy toward new interests. Sheep replaced cows, and as I began reading the annual publications from British Wool, I noticed there was no Derbyshire County representative at the Central Region. One thing led to another, I became Chairman of the Central Region and, much to my surprise, am now a Board Member. Having seen first-hand the consequences of the Milk Marketing Board’s demise, I’m determined to support British Wool and protect our industry from a similar fate.

What inspired your trip to the USA, and what were your main goals for going?

I hadn’t planned the trip to the USA at all. Through organising local Sheep Fairs to promote the sheep industry in all its forms. I met an excellent Cheviot breeder, James Metcalf, who organisers  invited to judge at the inaugural North American Hill Sheep Show in 2024. Their aim is to breed British-type sheep. For the 2025 show, they were looking for a judge for the “Any Other British Breed” category.

They surprised me with the invitation. I accepted with both excitement and a fair amount of trepidation, but with a firm resolve to judge by UK standards.

How would you describe your experience while you were in the USA?

Our hosts treated the four judges with extraordinary hospitality, truly “like royalty.” One evening, around 10 p.m., while walking back to our condo. We passed a members’ club, and two men invited us in, one of whom turned out to be the mayor of Escanaba. He insisted that drinks were on his tab all night!

That level of generosity and kindness continued throughout the week. We always had a car and driver available, often from one of the large local families. Many families in the area live simply, no TV, no mobile phones, until the children are working. With an average of around ten children, all homeschooled. It was inspiring to see so many polite, hardworking, and confident young people who were eager to talk and engage.

Escanaba, on the northwest coast of Lake Michigan. A rural area with modest farms and strong support for Donald Trump. The sheep we judged over three days were, with very few exceptions, of a remarkably high standard. Many would have held their own against serious competition in the UK.

There are about five million sheep in the USA, but lamb and mutton remain unpopular. The story goes that during the world wars. American troops stationed in the UK were fed poorly cooked mutton, and that bad experience still lingers. Attendees travelled anywhere from 3 to 48 hours to reach the show. Which had a wonderfully social, friendly atmosphere quite different from most shows in the States.

What key takeaways or positives did you bring back from the trip?

Wool, for many in the USA, is something of an embarrassment. Many exhibitors process their own wool at home, it’s a small-scale, cottage-style industry, often run by family members. Despite that, the quality of the yarns and the natural dyes they produce were impressive.

There’s real potential for a gradual introduction of British genetics to help improve carcass quality in American flocks. Thanks to John Royle of the NFU, I’m now in regular contact with John Wilkes of AHDB in the USA and have reconnected with Cody Heinke, one of the key figures driving progress in their sheep sector.

How do you see your experience influencing your work in the wool industry moving forward?

The biggest takeaway for me, as a Board Member, was the reminder of how fortunate we are in the UK to have a functioning auction system, where buyers actively compete for our wool, recognising its quality. As Cody said, rather ruefully, in the US much of their wool is simply “left in a corner until I can find a use for it.”

That contrast has strengthened my resolve to continue standing up for and promoting British Wool. We have an incredible product and a system worth protecting.

AGM Highlights Sector Confidence as Prices Reach Nine-year High

We have celebrated a year of positive progress at our Annual General Meeting and Conference, reflecting renewed confidence across the UK wool sector, with rising wool prices, stronger consumer engagement and continued improvements in services for our farmer members.

Stronger returns

We confirmed that in the latest auction, held on 4 November, achieved the highest average prices for nine years, with the index up 27% in the past two months. The average auction price reached £1.21 per kg, compared to £1.00 per kg last season, marking a significant boost for producers across the UK.

“All core types are now trading at significantly higher levels than last season,” said Andrew Hogley “If current trends continue, our members can expect stronger returns in the year ahead.”

Supporting farmers and strengthening services

The AGM also showcased a series of service improvements designed to make it easier for farmers to deliver and market their wool, including more convenient collection centres and enhanced support at regional depots.

We paid tribute to our team and community, with long-serving Head of Shearing, Richard Scholfield, honoured for his outstanding contribution to the industry upon his retirement.

Driving demand through marketing and partnerships

In our 75th anniversary year, our focus on consumer engagement has also delivered impressive results. Our nationwide open days attracted widespread attention, with coverage on BBC, ITV, GB News and numerous radio outlets.

A visit from HRH The Princess Royal to the South Molton depot in October further underscored our heritage and importance to the UK’s rural economy.

“Our 75th anniversary celebrations have been an excellent platform to tell the story of British wool – sustainable, traceable and proudly homegrown,” added Andrew.

Speaking at the conference, Chris Tattersall from The Woolroom reinforced the commercial importance of British Wool’s traceability and sustainability from a customer perspective.

“British wool plays a key role in our products, and we’ve seen strong growth in both domestic and export markets thanks to its provenance and quality,” he said.

Highlighting the efforts that we are taking to engage consumers of all ages about the benefits of wool, Andrew pointed to a successful initiative to engage primary school children and their parents.

He said: “Our creative partnership with Aardman and Save the Children saw more than 800 primary school pupils submit designs for a Christmas jumper for Shaun the Sheep made from British wool. The competition was judged by Gyles Brandreth, with the winning design now being made into 100 limited-edition jumpers to raise funds for charity.”

Overall, the AGM reflected a positive outlook for the sector, with optimism for continued growth into 2026.

Market Update

Recent auction sales  have seen strong competition for wool and a significant increase in prices.  All of the main buyers of British wool have been active. UK, European, and Chinese-focussed buyers competing to secure wool supplies.  All core types of British wool are now trading at significantly higher levels than we saw last season. Prices are at their highest levels in almost a decade. This should help support returns for British Wool members this season if prices hold.

The British Wool index has increased by 27% over the last two months. The average auction price reached £1.21 per kg in the sale on 4^th November.  Sale prices last season averaged £1.00 per kg.

The trend mirrors the price rises that have been seen in New Zealand, with global demand for quality cross-bred wool outstripping supplies.

Operational Update

British Wool’s depots are still open to receive wool this season.  The greater the volume of wool handled by your cooperative the lower the overall operating costs per kilo will be at year end.

Andrew Hogley, CEO: “After positive talks with the trade, our sales team expects strong demand to continue through the season.

“Recent sales in New Zealand have been very competitive. Global demand for quality cross-bred wool still exceeds supply.”

This season’s wool is also generally of a higher quality than last season’s wool.  The dry spring and summer resulted in whiter wool this season with more of the clip being classed as a No. 1 grade.

Andrew says: “Test results for new season wool continue to be significantly better than last year for colour, and continues to produce a greater proportion of No. 1 grades in the core types.”

We have received a large quantity of wool from new and returning members this season, but the overall volume handled to date is running around 2% to 3% below last year.

“Improved prices in 2024 encouraged many farmers to sell wool they had been holding or using on-farm this year.,” says Andrew.

“As a co-operative, we aim to maximise returns for sheep farmers. With prices improving, we encourage members to send in any wool before winter.

“If you still have wool on-farm, contact us to arrange delivery or collection. By marketing the clip together, we can promote British wool and help drive better price.”

Celebrating 75 Years of British Wool

Throughout 2025, we have been celebrating 75 years of representing sheep farmers and collectively marketing the UK clip.

To mark this milestone, we opened our doors and hosted several open days, including a special visit to our South Molton depot in Devon.

Royal Visit Highlights Milestone

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT), visited our South Molton depot during October. Which carried special significance as it took place during Her Royal Highness’s own 75th birthday year. Bringing together two landmark milestones that honour a shared commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and rural communities.

During the visit, The Princess Royal toured the depot’s grading facilities. Met with local farmers, staff, and innovators from across the region. Learnt more about how we are driving forward the use of natural, traceable fibres in fashion, furnishings, and beyond.

Andrew Hogley, CEO, said: “It was an enormous honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to our South Molton depot in this milestone year. Her Royal Highness’s lifelong support for British farming. Her deep understanding of the UK’s fashion and textile sector made this a truly special day for everyone involved.”

Honouring People Who Shaped the Industry

During September and October, across its UK, several Open Days were hosted. Offering a behind-the-scenes tour of the grading and sorting operations. While exploring the many uses wool is used for from high fashion and interiors to garden products, pet beds, and even tennis balls.

The events also shone a spotlight on the people and stories that have helped shape the wool trade over the years, including:

• Trevor Richards and Frank Langrish (ex Chairmen) are both long-standing figures in the history.
• Alun Evans, ex-Chairman from 1985-2000. At 92 years of age, Alun still helps on his family farm, which has now been passed down to his son.
• Former, long-standing employee, Dewi Jones – who retired in 2013 after clocking up 48 incredible years at the Brecon Depot
• Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement who started his career in 1990.
• Gethin Havard – Welsh-based sheep farmer from Sennybridge whose family has been farming for 960 years! Gethin was a Board Member for 12 years and ex-Vice Chairman
• Billy Hewitson, former Depot Manager at Irvine, who is now Head of Operations – after starting as a temporary worker in the 80s!
• Area Manager, David Swinton, who started his career in 1984 as a Trainee Wool Grader
• Chairman and farmer to his own 950-sheep flock, Jim Robertson

The Value and Future of British Wool

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement, said: “Owned by more than 30,000 sheep farmers in the UK. We collect, grade, market and sell British wool on behalf of our members. To the international textile industry for use in flooring, furnishings and apparel.

“British wool isn’t just a legacy fibre. It’s a material for the future, and is gaining new relevance in a world increasingly concerned with environmental impact. Every fleece tells a story. By choosing British wool, the UK is backing a thriving industry that values people and the planet.”

British Wool’s shearing training programme earns recognition across the UK and internationally. setting high standards in both skill development and animal welfare. As part of this commitment. all shearers who achieve Silver and Gold Seal awards we also reward a land-based Highfield accreditation.

Why Highfield Certification Matters

Highfield is one of the UK’s leading awarding organisations for skills training and compliance. Its certificates receives recognition across a wide range of industries. Giving assurance of professional competence. For shearers, this external accreditation adds an extra layer of credibility to the skills. Demonstrated through the British Wool programme.

The certificate shows that their training and assessment meet nationally recognised standards. This is particularly valuable for those looking to:

• Work abroad: Many countries require shearers to show evidence of formal qualifications. When applying for seasonal or skilled work visas. The Highfield certificate provides this recognised proof. Confirming that the holder has completed training and assessment to national standards. By presenting this certificate alongside their British Wool Silver or Gold Seal. Shearers can demonstrate their competence to visa authorities and potential employers. Making the visa process smoother and increasing their chances of securing overseas work.
• Secure employment in the UK: Farmers and contractors can be confident that a Highfield-certified shearer. Not only meets British Wool’s high standards but also an industry-recognised qualification.

Benefits for Shearers and Employers

• Enhanced career opportunities. The certificate is a valuable addition to any CV, especially for those considering seasonal work abroad.
• Recognition of skill and welfare standards. Certification underlines that shearers work to best-practice levels, ensuring sheep are handled responsibly and wool is harvested efficiently.
• Portability of qualification. Because Highfield is widely recognised, shearers can use the certificate across different agricultural and land-based sectors.

Raising the Standard of Shearing

By offering Highfield certificates alongside Silver and Gold Seals, British Wool ensures our training is not only robust but also benchmarked against wider vocational standards. This approach benefits the whole industry, from individual shearers looking to progress their careers, to farmers who can rely on a workforce trained and certified to a nationally accredited level.

For shearers, the certificate is more than a piece of paper. It is a mark of professionalism, dedication, and achievement. This sets them apart in a competitive and highly skilled industry.

The World Shearing & Wool Handling Championships, held every few years in different countries, is the pinnacle event for the World of Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling. Previously the most recent championship was held at the Royal Highland Show in Scotland in 2023, while New Zealand will be hosting the next event in March 2026. The competition includes individual and team events for machine shearing, blade shearing, and wool handling.

Following a summer of strong competition, the teams representing England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland in 2026 have now been confirmed. The teams will be:

England:

Team Manager:                          Gavin Stephens

Machine Shearer:                       Matt Smith

Machine Shearer:                       Nick Greaves

Blade Shearer:                             George Mudge

Blade Shearer:                             Andrew Mudge

Wool Handling:                           Hilary Bond-Harding

Wool Handling:                           Jess Parkhouse

Scotland:

Team Manager:                          Willie Dickson

Machine Shearer:                       Gavin Mutch

Machine Shearer:                       Hamish Mitchel

Blade Shearer:                             Willie Craig

Blade Shearer:                             Murray Craig

Wool Handling:                           Katie O’Sullivan

Wool Handling:                           Rosie Keenan

Wales:

Team Manager:                          Rhys Jones

Machine Shearer:                      Gwion Lloyd Evans

Machine Shearer:                      Llyr Jones

Blade Shearer:                            Rhydian Evans

Blade Shearer:                            Elfed Jackson

Wool Handling:                          Sarah Rees

Wool Handling:                          Jessica Morgan

Northern Ireland:

Team Manager:                          TBC

Machine Shearer:                      Alex Butler

Machine Shearer:                      Graeme Davidson

Blade Shearer:                            Sam McConnell

Blade Shearer:                            Chris Coulter

Wool Handling:                          Rachel Murphy

Wool Handling:                          Ellen Murphy

The championships take place in Masterton, New Zealand, between the 4^th and 7^th March 2026.

Meanwhile Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement, said: “On behalf of British Wool, congratulations to all the shearers and wool handlers who have qualified for next year’s World Championships. This outstanding achievement reflects your exceptional skill, dedication, and professionalism. Wishing you every success as you represent your country on the world stage.”

Additionally, Graze will be meeting and publishing a profile of the four teams in the months running up to the Championships.