A bursary scheme inspiring young people to take up careers in agriculture is now open for applicants.

The Melplash Agricultural Society’s education programme, Discover Farming, offers a bursary of up to £2,000 per annum to students aged 17 years and over who live with in 12 miles of Melplash Village Church who are abut to embark or are already studying agriculture.

Financial support will be extended throughout the successful student’s course if they receive a good annual report from their college or university. In 2019, £19,000 was given to 14 students.

For students still considering future careers, Discover Farming has created an online interactive career wheel to enable students to find out what careers are available in the agriculture sector. Each role is described and provides information on the qualifications and skills required.

Most recently, the Discover Farming team has introduced a group of ‘mentors’ working in many of the different aspects of rural employment. They act as guides to young people thinking of taking this career path but need help, encouragement and signposting.

Marcus Beresford, Melplash Agricultural Society director and Discover Farming programme chairman, said: “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and members, our Discover Farming programme enables us not only to focus on educating young people about food, farming and countryside, but also to encourage and inspire some of the most talented to take up careers in agriculture.”

For an application form and for more information on careers in architecture, visit discoverfarming.co.uk

Completed application forms should be returned to the society offices at 23 South Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3NT by July 1.