The next generation of farm leaders were celebrated during a presentation ceremony held at the 2026 Suffolk Show.
This competition was first launched back in 2016 thanks to the collaboration between the Suffolk New College, Suffolk Rural Campus, Fram Farmers, and the Suffolk Agricultural Association.
The idea was (and is) to help shine a light on the diverse careers that are possible within farming, whilst also highlighting the importance of agricultural apprenticeships to young people.
Since being set up a decade ago, 20 superstars have stepped up and received these prestigious accolades.
This year, Ruby Gardiner, 17, from Claydon, received the Suffolk Agricultural Apprentice of the Year Award. Ruby works for Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses in Creeting St Mary whilst studying on an apprenticeship with the Suffolk New College, Suffolk Rural Campus.
Ruby said, “I started working on a smallholding when I was 14, then I asked Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses if they had any weekend work, started helping out, and it progressed from there.
“I won the Suffolk Agricultural Apprentice of the Year award. I was quite shocked (to win). I was in the cowsheds in the dairy (at work) when I found out – so I was like ‘oh my goodness’ – but it was a great feeling. There is a lot of pride (in winning) – and I think from a career point of view it can help me in the future.”
Talking more generally about farming, Ruby continued: “I love the cattle side of farming – I’ve progressed quite far – I just find it really interesting.”
And she also had a quick word for the college, adding: “The college is a great team and if you have any issues, they are always there for you.”
The other winner was Bea Wallis, 19, from Wickham Market, who works for British Sugar. Bea won the Suffolk Agricultural Association Allied Apprentice of the Year sponsored by the Suffolk Agricultural Association and the Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural Campus.
On her love of farming, Bea said: “Every day is different, and that is what I love about my job. I joined young farmers when I was younger as soon as I started high school.
“My parents aren’t from a farming background (my dad is an electrician, and my mum is in the holiday let business). But I just love being outside, and I like the variety of British Sugar (and farming in general). I couldn’t recommend agriculture more.”
On how she got nominated for the award, Bea said: “My manager put me forward – I had a couple of interviews, and then I was told that I had won. As well as the title and a certificate, I’ve been given the opportunity of signing up to lots of training opportunities at Suffolk Rural.”
In terms of winning, Bea said, “I was super happy, and I’m very proud of myself. It is so lovely to be recognised.
In terms of Suffolk Rural: She said: “The college have been brilliant. They are really great.”
Gaynor Marsh helps organise the competition. The Suffolk New College Employment Engagement Advisor said: “Ruby and Bea are amazing role models and worthy winners. As a college, we need to do all we can to celebrate and promote farming – and both our winners are superb ambassadors for an industry in which we have supported since opening back in 1970 – and we will continue to do so with passion and pride.”