YBS 2025

On 2nd September, six Holstein Young Breeders will be travelling to Battice, Belgium to take part in the annual Young Breeders School. The event attracts around 120 young breeders from up to 25 different countries and was established in 1999. There is a strong focus on educating young breeders on a wide range of topics, including animal husbandry, show preparation and herd marketing.

During the first part of the school, the young breeders will take part in theoretical courses and workshops focused on preparing their calves for shows which will include washing, feeding, clipping, stock judging and showmanship. Following the training, two days are spent competing and putting their stock judging and showmanship skills into practice. Throughout the five days, emphasis is placed on team spirit and the participation of each member is evaluated throughout each stage of animal husbandry and preparation.

The six Young Breeders taking part this year are:

Annabel Cobb - 19 - South West

James Gregg - 18 - Northern Ireland 

Jodie Nutsford - 24 - Western

Philip Hopkins - 25 - South East

Rhian Masson - 22 - Isle of Man

Thomas Herd - 17 - Lancashire

We wish them all the best of luck.