The next generation of dairy farmers are in the spotlight at this year's Dairy Show, with a special focus on inspiring and educating new entrants.

This year the show is launching Dairy Discovery Day, an initiative designed to connect agriculture with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. The interactive careers tour will provide students and young people with an engaging way to explore the wide range of opportunities the dairy and agricultural industries have to offer.

"We know how important it is to inspire the next generation and show them the possibilities within agriculture," says Lilanie Self, Shows and Education Coordinator at the Royal Bath and West Society. "From science and animal health to technology and engineering, dairy offers a variety of career options. The Dairy Discovery Day is designed to spark curiosity and open doors for young people."

Alongside this there will be the usual plethora of show highlights, including livestock classes, top speakers, and cutting-edge knowledge exchange in the form of the new Agri Forum panels programme. Chaired by James Bardwell, the forum will put relevance and accessibility front and centre, creating space for real conversations on the issues that matter most to the farming community.

Key discussions will focus on inheritance tax, offering practical strategies for succession planning and safeguarding farming families, alongside the rising role of biomethane in low-carbon agriculture, where leaders in the industry will highlight its potential for renewable energy, waste management and environmental gains.

Another first for the show will be the hosting of the LandAlive event, showcasing regenerative dairy farming through keynote talks and in-depth panel discussions. Farmers, advisers and industry experts will share practical insights into the opportunities and challenges of transitioning towards regenerative practices.

"What makes these sessions so exciting is that they come from real farmer experiences," says LandAlive event curator Tom Pycraft from Ark Consultancy. "We will be sharing the journey of moving from conventional to regenerative production, looking at both the financial challenges and how to reduce risks."

Turning to the show ring, judges will welcome some of the UK's finest dairy livestock, with exhibitors travelling from across the country to compete in breed classes before respective champions battle it out for the Supreme Champion title.

Entries for the cattle classes are now open and close on 16 September 2025. The Dairy Show will again host the Jersey Cattle Society of the UK and the English Guernsey Cattle Society's National Shows.

On the eve of the Show, the Dairy Industry Dinner will once again provide an opportunity to network and celebrate the sector's achievements. Guest speaker Sarah Dyke MP (Liberal Democrats) will join industry leaders, and funds will be raised for the Farm Safety Foundation, the show's chosen charity of the year. The evening will also see the presentation of the highly regarded Dairy Industry Award.

"The Dairy Show has always been about bringing people together, to compete, to learn, and to celebrate the dairy industry," explains Miss Self. "What makes this year so exciting is that we're making the future a priority, with initiatives that support young people and create a stronger, more resilient dairy sector for years to come."

• To enter classes or book tickets visit www.bathandwest.com/the-dairy-show https://bathandwestdairyshow.seetickets.com/event/the-dairy-show/bath-west-showground/3442286
• http://www.bathandwest.com/the-dairy-show/competitive-entries
• To find out more about LandAlive visit https://www.arkce.com/land-alive-dairy-showarkce.com/land-alive-dairy-show