Shuttleworth College students get hands-on experience with modern farm machinery

Students at Shuttleworth College, part of The Bedford College Group, recently took part in an agricultural machinery demonstration day at the College’s Kingshall Farm.

They were able to see modern farming equipment in action.

The event was delivered in partnership with Tuckwells, a family-run agricultural dealer and Kverneland Group, a leading international company developing, producing and distributing agricultural implements, electronic solutions and digital services.

T Level Crop & Plant Production and Level 3 Diploma Agriculture students got the chance to learn more about modern tractor technology and cultivation equipment and how it is used in real farming environments. The demonstration day formed part of the college’s focus on providing practical learning opportunities that support students preparing for careers in agriculture.

Don Campbell, Area Manager, Kverneland, said:

“We did a working demonstration day at Shuttleworth College. It’s really important to involve students in what we’re doing. While we’re demonstrating products to customers, it also gives us the opportunity to share knowledge with students and enhance what they’re learning through their course. The students here are studying crops, so we can directly link the demonstrations to what they are learning in college.”

As well as watching the demonstrations, students were also given the chance to drive the tractors themselves under supervision, allowing them to gain hands-on experience with the machinery and develop a better understanding of how the equipment operates.

Ellis, a T Level Crop & Plant Producation student, commented:

“I very much enjoyed looking at the plough and how it operates in transport mode.”

Tom Bowen, Horticulture Lecturer at The Bedford College Group, added:

“It’s a great opportunity for students to see the latest in agricultural machinery and understand how different cultivation methods can affect crop establishment.”

Technology in action

Working with industry partners also helps students understand how the skills they are developing at college apply in modern farming businesses.

The day also allowed students to see modern agricultural technology in action and gain practical experience with equipment used across the industry.

Find out more

If you would like to find out more about the facilities at Shuttleworth College and the courses they offer, visit:
https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/colleges-and-campuses/shuttleworth-college/