Ulster Wool Shearing Training & Development Programme

Ulster Wool are offering a unique opportunity for one person to receive one year’s free access to Ulster Wool training courses: machine shearing (2 courses); gear training; and wool handling. This competition is open to 16 – 30 year olds residing in Northern Ireland, either with or without previous shearing experience. Those interested will be invited to convey why they should be eligible for such a training opportunity (by letter, email or short video). Competition entries (submitted by ----) will be judged by a panel of industry experts. The overall winner will receive invitations to four separate training events, an all-expenses paid visit to Ulster Wool's head office and grading depot as well as learn more about the wool processing chain. Competition winners will be expected to work with Ulster Wool by sharing their training journey over the 14 months on social media, the press and online. 

Who can enter?

• 16 – 30 year olds residing in Northern Ireland
• No shearing experience necessary
• Tell us why you think you should be eligible for the programme, by sending us a short video (45 seconds), letter or email.
• The winner will sign up to promoting Ulster Wool Courses, we will monitor their progress over a 14 month period which will include PR coverage.

What is involved?

• Ulster Wool – 2 Day Machine Shearing Course
• Ulster Wool – 1 day Gear course, run in conjunction with Lister Shearing to understand all the technical details outlined on a Gear/Shearing Course
• Ulster Wool – 1 day Wool Handling Course, to also gain a good understanding of Grading
• Ulster Wool – 2 day Machine Shearing Course
• Further development opportunities might include an organised work experience week with a registered shearing contractor to gain experience and hands on knowledge.
• A visit to Ulster Wool head office, grading depot as well as learn more about the wool processing chain.
• Supporting and promoting the work of Ulster Wool.
• The competition is also supported by Lister Shearing who have provided a package of shearing equipment to the value of £500 on completion of the programme.

How do I enter? 

Send your video or email entries along with your Name, Date of Birth and Address to;

[email protected]

To enter by post, address your letter to;
Jayne Harkness-Bones, Ulster Wool, 20 Tirgracy Road, Muckamore Antrim, BT41 4PS

Who will judge the competition?

The competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts from the shearing sector and Ulster Wool.