The King’s Foundation launches free training programme for women in farming at Dumfries House
The King’s Foundation has launched applications for its new farming and rural skills education residential programme, Women in Farming: Cultivating Your Future, designed for women in the rural sector who want to build skills and confidence. The four-day course will take place at the Dumfries House estate, the charity’s headquarters.
The four-day programme offers insights into rural industries, an opportunity to network, guidance on development, and a pathway for those seeking to expand their existing skills. Participants will get to opportunity to take part in workshops in our state-of-the-art training byre, visit local businesses, and access interdisciplinary learning opportunities across our 2,000-acre estate.
“The King’s Foundation is delighted to be launching a programme designed to champion women in farming. Women make up around 35-40% of working farm occupiers and spouses in Scotland yet remain under-represented in leadership roles and face barriers to training access. This is why we feel it is important to run a programme that has a clear focus on supporting women in the farming and rural sector.”
Jacqueline Farrell, Education Director at The King’s Foundation
The programme will run from Monday 16th February until Thursday 19th February 2026 and will be based at the MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre on the Dumfries House estate, which was opened by His Majesty The King. The programme is open to adults aged 18 and over and is offered free of charge. All equipment required for the course will also be provided.
The MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre is a purpose-built facility located on the working Dumfries House estate farm, which is home to a wide range of animals and specialises in rare breeds. The Centre and farm form a key part of The King’s Foundation’s education work on the Dumfries House estate, delivering a range of programmes to people of all ages. This course comes after the success of the launch of The King’s Foundation Introduction to Farming and Rural Skills programme, with the first ever cohort graduating in November 2025.
Applications are open now and will close on Monday 26th January 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview during the week commencing 2nd February.