Young farmer celebrates A Level results before move to New Zealand

A YOUNG Hexham farmer is celebrating his A Level results before starting six months work in New Zealand, having secured a place to study at a leading agricultural college next year.

Will Bailey, a student at Dame Allan’s Schools, will start his BEng in Agricultural Engineering at Harper Adams, in Shropshire, next September, having successfully deferred his place to gain experience overseas.

The 18-year-old, from Whitley Chapel, who has spent his summer working at a local farm in Hexham, is heading to New Zealand’s South Island in October to help on a large farm for six months.

Will, who joined Dame Allan’s in Year 5, took A Levels in Biology, Physics and Economics.

Both of Will’s parents grew up on family farms and have worked within the agricultural industry. Two of his uncles have farms, one in Northumberland and the other in Warwickshire, where Will has spent many summer months working over the years.

His interest in engineering runs in the family. He said: “My grandfather was quite an engineer in his time. If he couldn’t get what he needed from a machinery manufacturer he would design and build his own equipment-often pioneering new ideas that were recognised in the farming press. He was a brilliant fabricator which is something I’m also very interested in.

“The reason I chose Harper Adams is because I specifically want to hone my skills in agricultural engineering and, with my strong background in farming, it seemed a natural fit.”

Will has balanced his heavy involvement in farming with his academic studies at Dame Allan’s, while also playing rugby for the Fenham-based independent school and completing his Duke of Edinburgh bronze and silver awards.

He is a member of the Young Farmers’ Club and has been a keen horseman since the age of 7, enjoying eventing and competing at regional and national championship level in tetrathlon, which involves shooting, swimming, riding and running.

Will Scott, Principal of Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Will is a fine example of a young man who has a fantastic work ethic, both inside and outside the classroom. His clear passion for farming, coupled with his family background and wealth of experience, will ensure he continues to thrive in further education.”