Dairy Student of the Year Winners' Profile 

The RABDF Dairy Crest Dairy Student of the Year 2011 title is up for grabs. We’ve had a look back at the previous winners, found out what they’re up to and how the award is helping them to progress their careers.

1. Which college or university did you attend? Which subject did you study? When did you graduate?  

Philip Dunn: Newcastle University, BSc Agriculture with Hons in Farm Business Management. Graduated 2010 with 1st class honours.  

Luke Thompson: The University of Brighton, studying at Plumpton College, FdSc Agriculture. Graduated 2010.

Oliver Hall: Royal Agricultural College, BSc Hons Agriculture (Animal Management). Graduated 2008.  

2. What positions have you taken up since winning the RABDF Dairy Crest Dairy Student of the Year Award?

Philip Dunn: Since winning the award and finishing my studies I have entered the family farming partnership and taken responsibility for the day to day management of the dairy herd, as well as formulating a long-term expansion strategy for the unit.  

Luke Thompson: Currently working in West Sussex as an assistant herd manager. I’m planning to travel to America and/or New Zealand when I have the cash behind me, to look at the different countries’ farming systems.  

Oliver Hall: After college I returned home to the family dairy farm in West Yorkshire and took over the management, implementing a change in dairy farming policy from a whole farm approach. In January 2010, I set up a business called Evolution Farming Ltd with fellow dairy farmer, Tom Rawson. It works in harmony with our own respective and existing family partnerships and is establishing a new 700 cow unit in Lincolnshire. We also have our own consultancy business, Evolution Dairy Herd Management which focuses on all areas on dairy farming with particular reference to milk from forage.  

3. How has the Award helped you?  

Philip Dunn: It has helped to raise my profile within the industry and provided many opportunities which would not have been otherwise available. I have had various offers of consultancy work for example, which I may choose to pursue alongside the development of my own dairy business. The award process itself was an incredibly interesting and useful experience, helping to develop confidence and strategic thinking.  

Luke Thompson: The award gave me greater confidence to speak up, including at forage society meetings and farm walks. It has opened up doors for me to progress further and faster than any qualification I have gained.

Oliver Hall: It was beneficial in getting me known in the industry. And funnily enough I now supply milk to Dairy Crest from our new farm in Lincolnshire!  

4. Why would you encourage other students to enter the Award?  

Philip Dunn: I would encourage anyone who is passionate about a career in the dairy industry to enter. The contacts I have made are second to none, and the award is highly recognised by prospective employers. The judging process also enables candidates to gain an insight into the industry beyond the farm gate.  

Luke Thompson: The award is recognised by many farmers, companies and people in high places as an almost guarantee that the winner is a hard working individual, who works towards difficult goals and most importantly can overcome and solve problems.

Oliver Hall: It was good to be formally interviewed because this tends not to happen a lot in the dairy sector which comprises mainly family businesses.  It was also a good challenge.