At a time when rural Britain faces both challenge and change, the next generation of young people will determine the future of our countryside. Yet, as farming businesses evolve and the pressures of cost, climate and regulation intensify, young people often struggle to see a clear route into the food and farming sector.

Polling undertaken by Future Countryside in May 2025 revealed that while seven in ten young people (71%) would consider living and working in the countryside, more than half felt that career opportunities were limited or unclear. Encouragingly, however, the same research found that young people are deeply motivated by values of sustainability, community and purpose, qualities that align closely with modern farming and land management.

It’s clear there is no shortage of enthusiasm for rural life, the challenge lies in creating meaningful pathways into it. That’s why initiatives like McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmers (PYF) programme are so vital.

Now entering its 13th year, the PYF programme has established itself as one of the leading industry placements for students seeking to build a future in the food and farming sectors. Designed to inspire and equip the food producers and industry leaders of tomorrow, the programme offers hands-on experience across the extensive McDonald’s UK and Ireland supply chain – from farm to front counter.

Applications are now open for the 2026/27 academic year, inviting full-time undergraduates at colleges and universities across the UK and Ireland who are passionate about food, farming or sustainability to apply.

Successful applicants will gain a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most dynamic supply chains in the world. Over 12 months, participants rotate through different stages of food production and processing, working directly with suppliers, farmers and McDonald’s head office teams. The experience is designed to develop both technical understanding and leadership skills, giving students a holistic view of how a modern, responsible food system operates.

Each young farmer works closely with a supplier, gaining in-depth experience in sectors including beef, pork, chicken, potatoes, dairy and eggs. Suppliers taking part include industry leaders Pilgrims Europe, Kerry, Dawn Meats, Cranswick, McCain, Arla and OSI.

More than 80 participants have graduated from the programme, many of whom now occupy influential roles across the agri-food sector, proof that the initiative provides not just a placement, but a launchpad for long-term careers.

Ellie Wotherspoon, Agriculture and Sustainable Sourcing Manager at McDonald’s UK and Ireland, said:

“We are incredibly proud of our PYF programme. It provides invaluable experience and exposure to every stage of the McDonald’s supply chain and brings a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those in the industry. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anyone passionate about farming, food, agriculture and sustainability.”

Harry Morley, a recent participant from the2024/25 cohort, reflected on how the programme broadened his perspective:

“By exposing participants to a wide variety of people and sectors in agriculture, the PYF programme gives candidates a well-rounded insight into the industry. I’ve learnt more about areas I’d previously had little exposure to and gained transferable skills that will stand me in good stead for the future. Developing my skills and not being afraid to try something new have been crucial in my success so far.”

The programme’s structure is flexible, designed to support each student’s personal development and ambitions. Participants are expected to work actively on farms, spend time in processing environments and undertake projects focusing on technical efficiency, sustainability and regenerative agriculture.

As the food and farming industries work to meet net zero goals and adapt to a changing climate, programmes like PYF are vital for developing the innovation, leadership and resilience needed to secure the sector’s future.

For McDonald’s, the initiative is part of its broader commitment to supporting sustainable British and Irish agriculture, recognising that long-term food security depends on empowering the next generation of producers and supply chain professionals. For the Countryside Alliance, the launch of each new PYF intake is a timely reminder of what’s at stake.

As our work with Future Countryside has shown, young people are not turning away from rural life – they simply need the confidence, training and opportunity to take part in it. Nadia Hartley, McDonald’s Head of Sustainability states: “When we invest a drop in potential, our ripple effect is resilience.” As rural Britain’s future depends on bridging that gap between aspiration and access, we should back programmes like Progressive Young Farmers.

Together we can help ensure that the countryside remains not only a place to live, but to thrive; where innovation and tradition go hand in hand and where the next generation can see a real and rewarding future for themselves.

Apply now

Applications for the Progressive Young Farmers 2026/27 programme are now open. Click here to find out more and apply.