Embracing Leadership: Lessons from Jamie’s Farm

January 23, 2025

Our Area Manager Becca had an amazing experience with young people at Jamie's Farm on a residential trip. Below she shares her thoughts on the experience.

Over the course of this term, I have been thinking a lot about what is important to me as a leader, identifying my strengths and understanding how best I can support my team. A recent experience on a residential trip provided profound insights into these areas, illustrating the core values I hold as a leader.

Recently, I had the privilege of supporting a Link Worker and a group of 12 incredible young people on a residential trip to Jamie’s Farm. This immersive experience in farm life challenged everyone to step outside their comfort zones which is particularly important for young people struggling with social and emotional issues.  

With no access to their mobile phones all week, the group were able to connect with the experience and each other in a way that they wouldn’t usually, leading to the formation of new friendships being built. One young person remarked “I thought it would be harder not having my phone. It’s actually been nice because normally I’d just be on my phone so it made me chat to people.”

Daily Farm Life

Each day began early, with everyone up and dressed by 8 am, ready for their morning tasks before breakfast. Whether it was making communal meals for the group, milking the cow, or feeding the animals, each task was embraced with enthusiasm. After breakfast, the young people put on their wellies and overalls, diving into various farm jobs such as chopping wood, herding sheep, cleaning out the chickens, and gardening. While some tasks were enjoyable and others more challenging, every young person exhibited remarkable resilience, teamwork, and encouragement for one another.

A Standout Transformation

Among these young people, one individual's transformation stood out significantly. Previously on the brink of exclusion, this young man displayed politeness, respect, and a willingness to engage with focus and determination in every task. He said to me on several occasions, “Miss, look at this view! This is special. I’m so grateful for this opportunity, I love it here. I’d give up my phone for 6 months and come and live and work here.” This young man is intelligent, charismatic and has so much potential. It was a privilege to get to know him, see him thrive in this environment and be genuinely praised for his achievements across the week. 

Staying Connected as a Leader

As a leader, it's really important to me to stay connected to the children, young people and work happening in schools. I felt quite emotional on Friday morning, having had the honour to work with get to know 12 phenomenal young people, all of whom thrived during their farm experience and have so much potential to thrive in life. I know what great work we do as an organisation and always feel driven in my role because of this. However, being on the farm and having the time to connect with the young people and see the progress they are making in real time, drove home just how important our work really is.

together, every child and young person can flourish.

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