[PIGBOY]

Hi, I'm 15 years and would like to be a freelance shepherd when I'm older. I have quite a bit of experience with pigs, poultry and waterfowl but only a bit with sheep and that is in the form of helping out a friend at lambing time for the past 4 years. Unfortunately I am unable to work there now so I am looking elsewhere in Wiltshire to gain more experience with sheep, such as shearing, dipping and all the other things. So I was wondering if there is anyone in Wiltshire that would be prepared to take me on as their apprentice for a year of something for me to gain experience? Would this be possible?
I look forward to a reply!
Thanks,
Keelan

[lachlanandmarcus]

Good for you Keelan!


If you haven't already, you might want to advertise on farming forum jobs board,


Eghttp://thefarmingforum.co.uk/index.php?forums/farming-jobs-board/


Also Gumtree for your area and notices up at the local mart/feed stores.


Work out what you are expecting in terms of pay, accommodation, and how large a distance from home you would consider working.

[Backinwellies]

Where in Wiltshire are you?

[PIGBOY]

Thanks Lachlanandmarcus i wil do!

I am near devizes!

[lachlanandmarcus]

Also look at Helpx online, altho it is designed for people exchanging accommodation for part time work on farms and hotels and smallholdings etc, it might well be one of the hosts on there would be very receptive to working something out with you.

[Crofterloon]

Keep on looking for the last year or so a Young Fellow of your age as helped me and others in our area.
I found in the winter he could look round my sheep after school as it was dark by the time I got home from work. He helped with rounding up drenching, feet trimming, rolling fleeces etc.
I knew he was interested in sheep basically as he would often come along when I was working in the field. Others in the area ask him for help also.
So all the best there are not many young fellows interested in sheep in our area. I do have a Grandson who seems interested but does not have the drive.

[Backinwellies]

Do you belong to young farmers?  A great way to meet others with same interests and learn about lots of things ........... plus will meet others with sheep farm who may let you help out.

[SteveHants]

I can't offer you a job - but I am just south of Salisbury and I am, essentially a grazier/freelance shepherd.


You could come and look at my set-up if you like.

[Fowlman]

I'm not far from Devizes pigboy but cant offer any work i'm afraid but i will let you know if i hear of anything local. Good luck.