Jenny Richardson
Jenny is building her career in agriculture after turning her studies at Houghall into a hands-on industry placement with a leading organic dairy farm.
She is currently studying Level 2 Agriculture at East Durham College and has secured a placement with Acorn Dairy, near Darlington. Known for its focus on sustainability, local supply chains and high animal welfare standards, the farm is giving Jenny valuable real-world experience in the sector.
As a young woman entering a traditionally male-dominated industry, Jenny has embraced the opportunity to gain confidence and prove what is possible. She said placements like this highlight how the industry is changing and becoming more accessible.
During her time at Acorn Dairy, Jenny is gaining practical skills in livestock care, machinery use and understanding how farms balance animal welfare with environmentally responsible production. The experience is helping her build confidence and develop the knowledge needed for a career in agriculture.
Her placement is part of East Durham College’s work with employers to give students real experience alongside their studies. With skills shortages across dairy and livestock farming and an ageing workforce, opportunities in the sector are growing, and more women are beginning to take them.
