Become a Host Farmer

Help grow the next generation of skilled dairy farmers.

Dairy Training’s NextGen programme is a NZQA-accredited programme designed for year 12 and 13 school leavers, providing them with the foundation for a successful career in dairy farming.

Programme structure:
» Three weeks of hands-on pre-employment training in December
» Six months of on-farm employment from January to June with a Host Farmer
» A set training day each week
» Ongoing pastoral care and development support from a Learning Advisor

As a Host Farmer, you’re not just hiring a farm assistant – you’re helping shape the next generation of skilled dairy farmers.

We’re looking for farmers who: 
» Are passionate about the industry
» Are committed to training the next generation
» Lead with innovation and best practice
» Provide a great workplace culture that attracts and
develops people

 

Contact for more information
Tania Burrows
tania.burrows@dairytraining.co.nz
022 025 5648

NextGen dairy farmers

Become a Host Farmer

Be part of the NextGen solution

Host Farmer responsibilities

As a Host Farmer, your role is to:

» Employ a Student on a six-month fixed term, part-time (32 hours per week) contract from January to June
» Provide daily on-farm coaching and mentoring to support your Students progress to Dairy Farm Assistant level
» Connect training with real farm experience
» Host occasional training days

 

Hours of work and training days

» Students’ hours are restricted to 32 hours per week
» Additional hours are at the discretion of the Host Farmer and Student, but should not frequently exceed 32 hours per week
» Students must attend a set training day each week (eight hours)

 

Remuneration

» Students are your employees with a standard Employment Agreement
» Pay is set by you in alignment with the Training Agreement
» Payment for training days is at your discretion
» You may choose to offer the Student a permanent position near the end of their contract

 

Host Farmer support and costs

Host Farmer support includes:

» A Training Agreement between a Host Farmer and the Student
» Weekly training and progress check-ins
» A Learning Advisor supports both Host Farmers and Students.

The Learning Advisor:

  • Manages the programme
  • Co-ordinates training days
  • Monitors Student wellbeing
  • Conducts on-farm progress meetings
  • Checks in regularly and supports the Host Farmer

 

What it costs:

A $2,500 contribution to Dairy Training covers training and pastoral care for the Student during their six-months employment.

© Dairy Training Limited 2024