A new leadership course aims to give young people a leg-up in the rural sector by developing their management and communication skills.

The Leadership and Management Programme (LAMP), established by the Worshipful Company of Farmers, will target personal development, while helping to contribute to the growth of the wider rural sector.

The course launches in October at Duchy and Bicton College’s Rural Business School. It is aimed at 20-30-year-olds who are in the early stages of their careers and may or may not have formal academic qualifications.

“This is a really important age to get set up for the future,” says Richard Soffe, the school’s director. “It can make all the difference to someone’s career.”

The programme comprises a week-long residential course held in the Midlands, and will help attendees to develop basic leadership skills and undertake self-assessment.  It will incorporate live case studies, guest speakers and personal development plans.

Participants will also benefit from mentor support for a year after attending the programme, giving them the chance to keep track of their progress and continue building on what they have learned.

Jane King, CEO at AHDB, said: “We are entering a defining moment for the future of the industry and strong leadership will be fundamental to our future success.  Courses like this are inspirational in finding and nurturing great leaders who grow spectacular businesses and go on to have real impact and influence on others.

“Personal development and a positive attitude towards lifelong learning will be vital if we’re to build a world class industry together.”