The York Fresh Start Academy, which is based at the city's Askham Bryan College, is a Defra-supported initiative aimed at people aged 23 to 45 who are looking to develop a career in agriculture. It involves 12 three-hour evening classes covering subjects such as finances, tenancy agreements, marketing and management.
The Academy was launched in York in 2008 and in its first year, it helped around 20 students to develop their business skills.
The Academy was launched as part of the Fresh Start scheme, a ground-breaking, industry-led national initiative which aims to encourage a culture of professional development throughout the agricultural industry and promote farming as an attractive career option for new entrants. It also aims to provide a 'matching service' that links potential new entrants to those wishing to step back from the industry or retire.
