A new partnership will support new training opportunities for Cumbria’s upland farmers and land-based professionals.
H&H Group and the University of Cumbria have joined forces to offer specialist courses during 2026.
Through the initiative, H&H is fully funding 12 places on the courses, designed to give farmers, forestry workers, land agents and other land-based professionals the chance to explore practical approaches to land management, environmental responsibilities and livestock systems in a balanced and informed way.
H&H Group said: “It is about enabling farmers to make clear, informed decisions that work for their own enterprises, demonstrating how food production and environmental management can successfully operate in tandem.”
The series begins on January 12 and will include:
- Upland farming for net zero
- Mapping environmental assets
- Trees on farms & fells
Each course blends online learning with hands-on farm visits and shared learning, enabling participants to see a variety of approaches in practice.
H&H’s support is centred on helping farmers and land managers understand the choices available to them, gain practical knowledge and learn from others, so they can make well-informed decisions that best suit their individual businesses and farming systems.
The initial course includes farm visits, workshops, seminars at the Ambleside campus and online evening lectures.
Participants will carry out a practical carbon audit and compare the impacts of different livestock and land management systems.
The course is structured to fit around work commitments over a four-to-six-week period and is supported in Cumbria by the education charity The Ernest Cook Trust.
Mark Johnson, chief operating officer at H&H Group, said: “Farmers are the backbone of our rural communities and our economy, and we recognise the essential contribution that our upland livestock farmers make in producing high-quality, British food.
“By supporting this educational series throughout 2026 in partnership with the University of Cumbria, we’re helping farmers to invest in their future. Our aim is to increase knowledge and confidence to make more informed decisions, enabling them to manage their farming businesses even more effectively.”
“Through practical farm visits, specialist advice and shared learning, we believe we can support the sector to thrive more sustainably.
“This aligns with our long-term commitment to farming businesses, land stewardship, rural resilience and adding lasting value to the communities we serve.”
Julia Aglionby, Professor of Practice at University of Cumbria, added: “Farm businesses are facing rapid change, growing uncertainty and increasing pressure to adapt.
“These fully funded training opportunities are designed to give hill farmers and advisers the practical tools they need to strengthen their core enterprises, improve profitability and prepare for emerging environmental schemes.
“By focusing on soil health, livestock performance, collaboration and the transition to net zero, farmers can make informed decisions that boost resilience to changing weather and improves financial returns.
“We’re delighted to offer these courses with the support of our partners, ensuring that Cumbrian farmers are equipped to thrive in a changing landscape.”
To find out more, or to sign up for upland farming for net zero first course, visit https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/study/courses/cpd-and-short-courses/upland-farming-for-net-zero
