Upland Farm Training

Delivered over one or two days, our farm-based courses provide an in-depth introduction to upland hill farming and lowland commoning systems. Designed for conservation professionals who engage with commoners, the training takes place on working farms and combines classroom sessions with practical, on-the-ground learning.

Led by experienced farmers and industry professionals, the courses cover:

  • Livestock farming systems and seasonal management cycles

  • Principles and practices of common land management

  • Farm economics and the financial factors influencing decisions

  • The dynamics of collaborative conservation and land stewardship

By observing and participating directly in farming activities, participants gain a clearer understanding of the day-to-day realities of commoning and the broader context in which land management decisions are made.

These sessions are suitable for individuals or teams looking to strengthen their understanding of commons-based systems through applied, location-specific learning.

Example of a one day course itinerary:

  • Arrival with refreshments

  • Introduction to the Farmer and their farming business, livestock, tenancy agreements and common land grazing

  • Farm yard practical session - dosing sheep, discussion on marketing of draft ewes, animal health, inputs and and outputs, farming families and the next generation.

  • Presentation by industry professional - Common land legislation and governance including interactive quiz

  • Buffet Lunch with and the farmer

  • Practical session - a walk with the farmer up to the common to showcase the sheep stratification system, farming year, animal health, sheep dog demonstration, management of the common and shedding activity

  • Break with refreshments

  • Presentation by industry professional - Hill farm economics including issues with grant schemes and Direct Payments

  • Debrief, questions and answers session with the facilitators and host farmer