RURAL VOICES with TAMSIN WESTBROOK, Estates Manager at Vallis Farm
THE NEXT GENERATION OF LANDWORKERS
What will it take to grow food fairly, sustainably, and locally in the years ahead — and who will be skilled and supported enough to do it?
In this talk, Tamsin, Estates Manager at Vallis Farm, shares her vision for the future of learning on the land. Having transformed the farm through a thriving veg box scheme, biodiversity-led growing, and a dedicated apprenticeship programme, she now asks a bigger question: how do we train and empower the next generation of growers?
As Vallis Farm prepares to launch a new Community Interest Company, Tamsin is working to expand their accredited training opportunities for young people — from teenagers exploring their first steps in land-based work to young adults seeking a meaningful, hands-on career. Her aim is clear: to build a pathway into landwork that is skilled, respected, and fairly paid.
Drawing on the farm’s experience, she’ll speak candidly about the true cost of food and why cheap supermarket prices hide the human labour behind real, sustainable farming. Healthy soils, no chemicals, low food miles and hand-grown produce require more people, not fewer — and that means investing in training, wages and long-term learning.
In her own words:
“Everyone understands the human cost of fast fashion — but not of fast food. When you buy a veg box, you’re not just choosing chemical-free, freshly harvested produce; you’re supporting apprentices, paying fair wages, and helping young people build a future on the land.”
This session invites us to rethink not only how our food is grown, but who grows it — and how rural communities like ours can support the landworkers of tomorrow.
Expect an inspiring and grounded conversation about skills, stewardship, and building a resilient rural future from the soil up.
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Please arrive promptly at 9am for breakfast, the talk will begin at 9.45am.
BOOK NOW! Tickets are £15 or £12.50 for Horningsham residents- All profits go to the Village Hall Regeneration Fund.
If you need any help with booking please contact events@horningshamvillagehall.com