I would like to offer my time to a farm at weekends / weekday evenings as appropriate in exchange of learning all aspects of the farming:

Pig husbandry, breeding, handling, health, marketing

other animals too but my main interest happens to be pigs.

Veg crops and other aspects of farming you may do to supplement being a stock farmer and get the most from your land.

I am not in this for profit, just to have a 'token' for my time. I am offering my time in exchange to pick up skills and learn about farming, both the practical and business aspects. From season planning through to selling the produce. I appreciate it's 'muck and bullets' and am of a willing but i reiterate that i am offering my time to work and learn not to have my time used as cheap labour.

Why? I have long had a desire to farm (mainly stock) but know nothing about it. My background and career is in machinery. I am wanting to make a switch from machinery to using machinery on a farm for my living for greater satisfaction and appreciation of the land. I need to learn the skills before i make this leap!

I am in the Oxford area, the more local i can find a farm to work with the more time i will be able to give.

Please reply, PM or email if you are in this area and feel this is a good exchange as i do.

Hi Oat,

Hunt out some outdoor pigs and go and see their owners.

There used to be lots in Oxfordshire and it's hard work so it should be possible to get your foot in the door somewhere.

You could try the national pig association and the pig site

Bon courage,

JC.

Many thanks JC.

There's a few about but not loads. I'll hunt out something local and try and find the farm / owner. Not so easy sometimes hence posting here - will also try posting on 'the pig site'.