Featured student of the month: Amy Wright

Posted 3 February 2014

A monthly special featuring a current student from Harper Adams University.

Final year student, Amy Wright, can often be seen in the ring at agricultural shows across the country, thanks to her love of breeding and showing sheep.

After careful consideration, the 22-year-old chose to breed Herdwick, Badger Face Welsh Mountain and Blue du Maine types of sheep with the help of her partner.

Amy, from Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, said: “I chose what I believe to be attractive looking sheep, breeds that go well together and that are quite popular. I also have a passion for Hill and Heath breeds more than anything.

“I live with my partner and commute into Harper Adams each day, meaning that I can take care of the flock completely, and attend all of the shows.”

As well as the show sheep, Amy co-runs a 100-head commercial sheep flock, 30-head beef herd and breeds Oxford Sandy and Black pigs. She is preparing to breed pedigree Italian Piedmontese cattle and in her spare time works at a commercial pig farm.

Amy, who previously attended Warwickshire College, said: “I have always loved pigs from a very young age. I completed some work experience and then never left! Our farm also supplies a local pub with meat for the restaurant.

“You might wonder why I chose to go to university when I’m already so busy with farming, but I know the employment prospects will be better with a degree under my belt.

“I want a career rather than just a job and I’ll still farm in the future, but more as a hobby. I won’t inherit a farm so I need to secure a future for myself, so I’m trying to find a way in.”

BSc (Hons) Animal Management, Health and Welfare (top-up) student Amy has a strong passion for farming now, but has had to work her way up from the bottom.

She added: “I started small with my first pig and it’s just snowballed. I’m excited for the summer when I’ll be touring the country with the agricultural shows.

“The main show for me will be the Great Yorkshire. Fingers crossed I do well!”