Courses

Leadership and management education for British agriculture

Courses recognised across the industry for over sixty years. Whatever stage you are at, one of them is built for it — and if cost is the obstacle, say so early, because we can often help.

Help with funding Which course?

The portfolio

Our courses

Each course is designed or selected for a different point in a career. Many delegates take more than one, at different stages.

Stonehouse Court, Gloucestershire Rural Business Management The industry’s leading development programme for business owners and senior managers. Pre-course online work, a two-week residential, then workshops and coaching — using your own business as the material. 75th programme in 2026 Over 1,200 delegates since 1963 Four months About the programme Dartington Hall, Devon Challenge of Rural Leadership Two weeks developing confidence, communication and business acumen, with media training, group work and visiting speakers on policy and leadership. Run with the Rural Business School at Duchy College. Running since 1996 Two weeks Ages 26 to about 50 About the programme Cranfield, Buckinghamshire Cranfield Business Growth Programme For owner-managers, a chance to step back from the day-to-day and leave with a robust strategy and a plan for the future. Businesses of 5 to 50 staff Turnover £0.5m to £20m Read more Cranfield, Buckinghamshire Cranfield MBA One year full time, or two years part time as an Executive MBA. For managers building broad leadership skills and a wider management toolkit. Ages 35 and over Full time or part time Read more

Not sure which?

Choosing between them

Choose the Challenge of Rural Leadership if you want to look beyond your own farm or office gate, improve your public presence, and play a part in shaping the rural sector.

Choose Rural Business Management if you need to look hard at your own business model, master the financial side, and come away with a concrete strategy for growth.

They are complementary rather than alternatives. Many people take Rural Business Management earlier in their management career and the Challenge of Rural Leadership when they move into more senior, industry-facing roles.

Finding the right course

Worried about the cost?

We can often help

The Company is committed to ensuring that nobody otherwise eligible is kept off a course by cost alone. Through our Charitable Trust we provide substantial assistance to delegates who need it.

We do ask that you explore other sources first — your employer, your own business, suppliers and customers. The page below sets out how, and who to speak to.

Sponsorship and funding

Read on

More on our education work

Become part of the Company.

Joining as a Liveryman means a life-long fellowship of like-minded people from across farming and food. The Clerk will guide you from first enquiry to Clothing.

Start your journey