British Wool’s shearing training programme is recognised across the UK and internationally for setting high standards in both skill development and animal welfare. As part of this commitment, all shearers who achieve Silver and Gold Seal awards are also presented with 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 are recognised 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 they have 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 been trained and assessed 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 that sets them apart in a competitive and highly skilled industry.