A new virtual pig farming course is due to start this autumn in East Anglia.

The Stockman Plus course is being launched for the first time, while Stockman East and the BPEX Institute of Leadership and Management course are both back for a third year.

Stockman Plus will provide the next challenge for trainees, to build on the skills and knowledge gained through previous practical experience and / or the Stockman East course.

Pig levy payers’ organisation BPEX’s knowledge transfer manager Richard Bows said: “The more advanced Stockman Plus course will include problem-solving exercises which will be applied to a virtual farm to allow the group to see the outcome of decisions they make.“

The Stockman East course combines training in practical pig husbandry with visits to feed mills and abattoirs. Previous trainees, from a variety of backgrounds, have left the course full of energy, motivation and enthusiasm and with a greater understanding of the pig supply chain.

The Institute of Leadership and Management course helps supervisors and managers improve their people management and build their confidence when leading others. Specially-selected modules enable trainees to learn different management techniques and work together to decide on the best ways to handle various situations.

All three courses are flexible: participants can choose particular sessions to attend, subject to availability, or sign up for the whole course.

For more information and how to register, call BPEX knowledge transfer manager Richard Bows on 07816 941 223 or email richard.bows@bpex.ahdb.org.uk