Charli Cochrane had been immersed in rural life from a very young age. Growing up helping her grandparents on their arable farm, she developed an early love for tractors and the outdoors.
However, it was her involvement in the local Young Farmers and her subsequent placement in the Ringlink pre-apprenticeship programme that provided the professional structure to turn that interest into a career.
During her placement at Newhouse of Glamis in Angus, Charli was involved in a diverse range of activities. Her daily responsibilities included working in hen sheds, grading eggs, cattle work and lambing. She has also gained significant experience behind the wheel, carting grain, ploughing and soiling.
A key benefit of the pre-apprenticeship programme for Charli has been the emphasis on technical qualifications. She has already obtained her PA1 spraying certificate and is working towards her PA6.
This hands-on experience has transformed her approach to the job.
“I feel much more confident and competent now. If I’m sent away to do some grubbing or subsoiling, I’m not constantly having to ask questions,” she said.
She describes herself as highly organised, making sure that areas like the egg-grading shed are kept neat and ready for the following day’s work.
Her mentor Kay Adam played a vital role in this development by making sure Charli was exposed to a variety of tasks.
Kay said: “Since starting with us, Charli has grown massively in confidence and character.
“Whether ploughing or grading eggs, she always has a positive outlook and is truly a joy to work with. She has achieved many new skills and qualifications and brings a strong work ethic and commitment to the rest of our team.”
Charli’s success was further highlighted by her performance in stockjudging at the Royal Highland Show last year, an opportunity for which she feels her placement helped her develop.
She plans to stay with her mentor to complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Agriculture and eventually hopes to experience farming in New Zealand or Australia.
Find out more about the pre-apprenticeship programme here, or about becoming a mentor here.
