Apprentice Dairy Operator
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Company P G T HOOK & SON
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Provider PLUMPTON COLLEGE
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Location HAILSHAM, BN27 1ER
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Type Apprenticeship
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Salary £16,640.00 per year
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Sector Agriculture, environmental and animal care
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Ref NAS-2000061849
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Application Deadline Date 18/11/2026
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Start Date 23/11/2026
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Positions Available 1
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Working Week Tuesday to Friday, plus alternate Saturdays. Working hours are 5:00am to 10:00am and 2:00pm to 7:00pm, with an unpaid break between shifts. Total working hours are 40 hours per week. The role includes early starts and weekend.
Brief Description
This apprenticeship offers hands-on experience on an 80-cow organic dairy farm. You’ll develop skills in animal care, milking and farm operations, and gain insight into dairy retail, giving insight into the full farm-to-customer journey. We’re looking for someone eager to learn and committed to high welfare standards.
Training to be Provided
Training will occur in person at Plumpton College one day every two weeks.
Future Prospects
Successful completion of the apprenticeship could lead to a permanent role within the business, with opportunities to take on greater responsibility as the farm continues to grow. The apprentice will develop valuable skills in organic dairy production, livestock management and dairy husbandry, including experience in raw milk production, which is a specialist and highly sought-after area within the dairy industry.
Vacancy Detail
Day to day operations will vary but will include:
- Carrying out daily milking routines and maintaining high standards of animal welfare
- Assisting with calf rearing, including feeding, health checks and general care
- Undertaking livestock husbandry tasks such as feeding, bedding and monitoring stock
- Supporting general farm operations, including fencing, yard duties and seasonal farm work
Other Information
Applicants should be comfortable working in an agricultural environment while maintaining a strong food hygiene mindset. As the farm produces raw milk, high standards of cleanliness, attention to detail, and adherence to hygiene and biosecurity procedures are essential. The role involves working outdoors in all weather conditions and requires a commitment to both animal welfare and food safety. Own transport is advised due to the farm's rural location.