New farm manager joins Suffolk Rural College 

Although originally from The Cotswolds, Mr Greenhalgh said that he is aware of the history of Suffolk Rural and has big plans for the farm. 

The 30-year-old manager is keen to encourage new generations into the industry and wants to engage with local businesses to ensure the agricultural roots of the college are respected and continue to thrive. 

After GCSEs, Mr Greenhalgh attended Hartbury College, then he got a job on a dairy farm, spent four years in New Zealand, came back to the UK to complete a degree in farm management at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, worked on several farms in the UK and finally, in July 2024, he started working at Suffolk Rural College as a farm manager. 

He said: “My passion for farming started when I was younger. My grandmother had a one-acre plot where she kept chickens and grew vegetables. My brother’s girlfriend lived on a farm, and I also used to work there during school holidays. 

“Whilst my background isn’t agricultural, I’ve just grown to love the industry and enjoy being outdoors. I just love the seasons, and it’s great when you put in all the hard work and then get to see the outcome at the end.” 

Clarkson effect

Mr Greenhalgh added that his first impressions of the college were “very positive”. 

“I’ve already reached out and met a few local farmers, and they have been helpful and supportive. I’m really excited by what we can achieve. 

“I think farming is becoming more popular. Many articles talk about ‘the Clarkson effect’, because of Clarkson’s Farm, but I don’t think it’s all about that. 

“You have some high-profile people on social media, like Zoe Colville, Sarah Langford and Cammy Wilson, and I think more people got a taste for outdoor living during Covid,” he continued. 

The farm manager also pointed out that more women decide to start their career in the farming industry. 

He said: “On our T-Level course, we have about a 40% to 60% split of males and females. That is different to when I was at college around 14 years ago. And the agri tech side of it is encouraging people in.

“Looking ahead, I’ve heard about the Suffolk Show and how important it is to the county. I’m really looking forward to attending, and we are all systems go for our annual family farm day and community event called Big Day Out.” 

Farm expansion

Mr Greenhalgh also revealed his plans to expand the farm. He said: “I do a weekly farm walk to look at the crops, hedges, wildlife and grass.  

“Our grass isn’t very good here at the moment, so we will put a focus into improving this and the health of the soil – and this can help us increase the amount of livestock we can look after. 

“We now have chickens, ducks, goats, sheep and cows and we are really enthused by how well our farm shop has been going. 

“I’m over the moon to have got this job and to have the opportunity to work in this great community, pass on my knowledge to new generations, and link up with local employers,” he concluded. 

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