Oxford Farming Conference marks 25 years of Scholars Programme as applications open for 2027

The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) has opened applications for its 2027 Scholars Programme, marking 25 years since the initiative was first launched to support young people across food and farming.

Over that time, the programme has given participants the opportunity to experience OFC, build relationships with their peers, share views and ideas and develop valuable skills. It has also evolved to support OFC’s charitable remit to include, challenge and inspire, while widening access to people from a broader range of backgrounds and experiences.

For 2027, OFC is welcoming M&S Food and Severn Trent Water as new programme partners, building on that legacy and helping shape its next chapter.

The 2027 cohort will include 22 Scholars nominated and funded by sponsoring organisations, alongside eight places through Breaking Barriers, OFC’s dedicated scholarship for young people who face significant and identifiable barriers to accessing opportunities within food, farming and agriculture. Now in its seventh year, the initiative forms part of OFC’s wider commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Ben Williams, OFC Director said: "Scholars is about giving the next generation not just a route into agriculture, but the support to truly thrive. Marking 25 years of the programme, and welcoming two new sponsors, feels like a pivotal moment to build on that legacy. We’re excited to work with another cohort of talented new entrants who will help keep this industry vibrant."

Lucinda Langton, Head of Sustainability at M&S Food said: “At M&S we have backed British farmers for generations. Through our Plan A for Farming we are committed to investing in people and growing the future, which is why we’re delighted to support the OFC Scholars Programme and help talented young people gain the experience, networks and confidence to power the future of food and farming.”

Georgina Key, Severn Trent Water added: "We're keen to support new entrants into the sector, as they'll bring new ideas about land management. We hope that this results in multiple beneficial outcomes - for water, for the environment and for people."

The 2027 programme will combine two in-person gatherings, bespoke online sessions and attendance at the OFC from 6th to 8th January 2027, including the Chair’s Welcome Reception, Oxford Union Debate and Christ Church Dinner. With OFC27 centred on the theme ‘Harmony’, Scholars will experience a Conference focused on breaking down silos, sharing knowledge and encouraging people from across food and farming to work more effectively together, while contributing their own views and experiences to the conversation.

Applications are welcomed on behalf of people aged under 30 from across food, farming and beyond, including those from non-traditional backgrounds or who have not studied agri-food subjects. Applicants must not have previously attended the Conference.

Sponsors, organisations and groups can apply on behalf of a named person for one of the main programme places. Breaking Barriers candidates apply directly to OFC and, if successful, will take part in the full programme alongside additional activity with their cohort.

Applications are open until 16th October 2026 at 5pm. To find out more and apply, visit www.ofc.org.uk/scholarship-programme