- Tesco renews partnership with Harper Adams University’s School of Sustainable Food and Farming for a further three years
- Programme has already helped more than 200 young farmers build skills in sustainable agriculture
Tesco is extending its support for the next generation of British farmers, renewing its partnership with Harper Adams University’s School of Sustainable Food and Farming for a further three years.
The Future Farmer Programme, sponsored by Tesco and delivered by the Harper Adams University’s School of Sustainable Food and Farming, has already supported more than 200 farmers to develop the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to build resilient, sustainable farm businesses.
With applications open for the 2026/27 cohort, until 31 July, Tesco is encouraging ambitious farmers under 40 to apply for the programme, which combines industry visits, online learning and mentorship from experts across the food supply chain.
Through the programme, participants will gain first-hand insight into every stage of the food system, from farm to retailer, while exploring practical approaches to climate, nature, productivity and long-term business resilience.
The extension builds on Tesco’s wider work with farmers and growers to strengthen UK agriculture and support the transition to more sustainable food production.
Recent surveys highlighted the need for more practical support and knowledge-sharing around sustainable farming and biodiversity. The Future Farmer Programme is designed to help close that gap by giving young farmers access to expert guidance, peer networks and real-world examples of sustainable change.
Insights from the programme also helped inform Tesco’s Greenprint for UK Farming report, developed with the School of Sustainable Food and Farming, which sets out practical policy recommendations to help the food and farming sectors deliver on climate and nature goals, build food security, and attract much-needed future talent to the industry.
Natalie Smith, Head of Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries at Tesco, said:
“We are really proud to continue our support for young British farmers through our Future Farmer Programme.
“As British agriculture’s biggest customer, we know how important it is to invest in the people who will shape the future of farming. Supporting young farmers to build skills in sustainability, innovation and resilience is vital if we are to maintain a strong British food supply chain for generations to come.
“This programme gives farmers practical experience, expert insight and a valuable network of peers across the industry. We’re excited to see the next cohort build on its success and help drive positive change across UK agriculture.”
Simon Thelwell, Director of the School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University, said: “We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with Tesco.
“Over the past three years we have seen first-hand the value of investing in the next generation of farming leaders, helping them build the confidence, networks and skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing industry.
“We are excited to further develop the programme, strengthen its impact and continue supporting ambitious farmers as they transition towards more resilient and sustainable production systems.”
Alex Hardie, Programme Lead at Harper Adams University, added: “It is fantastic to have the opportunity to build on the success of the Future Farmer Programme over the next three years. We will be creating even more opportunities for delegates to engage with sustainability, innovation and practical business change that can deliver long-term impact across the sector.”
Farmers can find out more about the programme and apply through the Harper Adams School of Sustainable Food and Farming website.
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