Bishop Burton College showcases industry-ready talent at annual Stock Skills event

Education
Written By Rick Lyon

PRACTICAL SKILLS: Bishop Burton College students taking part in Stock Skills 2026. Pictures by Adam Fanthorpe

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

The next generation of agricultural and equine professionals put their skills to the test at Bishop Burton College’s annual Stock Skills competition.

The long-running event brought together students, staff, employers and invited guests for a day celebrating the practical expertise, professionalism and dedication required to succeed in land-based industries.

Throughout the competition, students took part in cattle, sheep and equine classes, demonstrating their ability in livestock preparation, handling, grooming and presentation, while also showcasing their technical knowledge to experienced industry judges.

Designed to reflect the standards and pressures of a major agricultural show, Stock Skills gives students valuable real-world experience and the opportunity to build confidence in a competitive environment.

Now in its 64th year, the competition remains the oldest event of its kind in the country and continues to be a key part of Bishop Burton College’s hands-on approach to learning.

LEARNING: Stock Skills gives Bishop Burton College students real-word experience

The event on the college campus, near Beverley, East Yorkshire, welcomed family members, governors, industry representatives and local stakeholders, all keen to support and celebrate student achievement.

Danny Metters, principal and CEO of Bishop Burton College, presented the winners with their trophies alongside special guest Peter Wright, star of hit television show Yorkshire Vet.

Danny said: “It was wonderful to celebrate our 64th Stock Skills event during the college’s 71st year of delivering specialist vocational education.

“This event is all about developing the next generation of skilled professionals in the farming and equine industries, and it was fantastic to see students bringing together the theoretical knowledge they’ve gained with the practical animal welfare and handling skills that are so important.

“The land-based industries are becoming increasingly technical, with AI and digital technologies continuing to transform the way businesses operate. However, the traditional core skills and understanding of livestock management remain absolutely essential.

‘AMAZING DAY!’: A Bishop Burton College student in one of the equine classes at Stock Skills

“Stock Skills takes place towards the end of the academic year, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned. It also reflects the culture, values and sense of community that make Bishop Burton College such a special place to study and work.”

Vice Chair of governors Christopher Henson said: “What an amazing day! We saw 46 students presenting their animals and demonstrating the core practical skills that are so crucial within the industry.

“It was clear how much they have learned and developed, and they should all be extremely proud of themselves.

“Events like Stock Skills continue to show why Bishop Burton is regarded as one of the leading land-based colleges in the country.”

Bishop Burton offers a diverse and advanced curriculum in agriculture and equine studies.

INDUSTRY EXPERTISE: Judging at Bishop Burton College’s Stock Skills event

The college is home to a 360-hectare commercial farm, cutting-edge agri-tech facilities and a world-class equestrian centre, helping students develop the practical and technical skills required by modern industry.

Through its partnership with the Yorkshire and Humber Institute of Technology (IoT), Bishop Burton is also helping to develop higher-level technical skills in areas including precision agriculture and agri-food technologies.

Rick Lyon
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