Farm Lead

Taunton, United Kingdom | Posted on 03/02/2026

The Farm Lead is responsible for the overall management, care, and ongoing development of the farm site. This includes ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health and safety, and site maintenance, while creating a safe, engaging, and well-organised environment for learning. The role covers all aspects of animal care from daily routines to seasonal requirements, compliance with animal welfare legislation, maintenance of buildings, tools, and machinery, and supporting students, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), when required.

The Farm Lead will play a key role in shaping the future of the farm, contributing to site improvements, development projects, and long-term planning to enhance both animal welfare and educational opportunities.

• Lead responsibility for the daily care and welfare of all animals, including feeding, watering, health checks, cleaning, and enrichment
• Manage all seasonal animal care needs such as breeding support, lambing/calving (where applicable), shearing, vaccinations, parasite control, and winter preparations
• Monitor animal health and behaviour, identify concerns early, and liaise with veterinary professionals as required
• Ensure animal care practices meet current animal welfare legislation and best practice standards
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records including health, medication, movement, and welfare documentation

• Take responsibility for the ongoing development of the farm site, identifying opportunities to improve facilities, animal enclosures, land use, and learning spaces
• Plan and support site development projects to enhance animal welfare, safety, and educational value
• Oversee maintenance of fields, fencing, shelters, pathways, and buildings
• Carry out general repairs and practical tasks to ensure the site remains safe, functional, and well-presented
• Maintain all tools, equipment, and machinery, ensuring regular servicing, safe use, and correct storage
• Safely operate farm machinery, including tractors and other agricultural equipment

• Ensure all farm activities comply with health and safety regulations
• Complete and review risk assessments and safe systems of work
• Maintain a safe environment for animals, staff, students, and visitors
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare, environmental, and educational regulations
• Support inspections, audits, and regulatory checks as required

• Support students on the farm site when required, including children and young people with Special Educational Needs
• Model safe, calm, and respectful behaviour around animals and equipment
• Work collaboratively with education and support staff to meet individual student needs
• Support students to develop responsibility, confidence, and practical life skills through meaningful farm activities

• Support the cleaning and upkeep of farm-based classrooms and shared learning spaces
• Ensure all learning environments are safe, organised, and ready for use

• Take a proactive lead in the day-to-day running of the farm
• Support, guide, and supervise staff, volunteers, and students working on the farm
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, management, and external professionals

• Minimum of three years’ experience managing and caring for animals
• Strong working knowledge of animal welfare legislation and best practice
• Experience working with children or young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• Hard-working and physically fit, with the ability to work outdoors in all weather
• Competent and confident tractor driver
• Experience using a wide range of farm machinery, tools, and equipment
• Strong understanding of health and safety and risk management
• Ability to work independently, use initiative, and manage competing priorities
• Good organisational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records
• Calm, patient, and reliable approach to work
• Qualifications in agriculture, animal care, land-based studies, or a related field
• First Aid qualification (or willingness to undertake training)
• Experience in educational, therapeutic, or care-farm settings
• Practical skills such as fencing, land management, or basic construction
• Experience supervising or training others

• Passionate about animal welfare and outdoor work
• Practical, solution-focused, and proactive
• Flexible and adaptable to the needs of the site and students
• Takes pride in maintaining high standards
• Positive role model for students, staff, and visitors