• Telford campus celebrates return of Zero Fees Scheme to support aspiring agricultural students
• SIT aligns with government focus on training for future-ready primary industry careers
• Free full-time study in 2026 removes major financial barriers for young domestic learners
Southern Institute of Technology’s (SIT) Telford campus is welcoming back its popular Zero Fees Scheme, giving domestic students a cost-free pathway into agricultural training from 2026.
The return of the scheme marks a major step as SIT prepares for full independence in 2026 and reaffirms its commitment to making education accessible. The Telford campus, known for its focus on farming and rural training, is once again offering full-time study without tuition fees, reducing the financial burden for learners looking to join the primary industries.
SIT Operations Lead, Amanda Whitaker, said bringing Zero Fees back to Telford was significant for the region’s future and its agricultural backbone. “We want to support all learners who are looking at a career in the primary industries; Zero Fees ensures that more young people have the opportunity of training within their reach, and costs associated are not a hindrance to gaining a recognised qualification.”
She noted that SIT was aligning with government priorities by investing in primary sector training and remained dedicated to breaking down barriers to education. “SIT is future focused and having Zero Fees at Telford facilitates advancing the whole sector with work-ready graduates.”
Popular programmes covered under the scheme include the Certificate in Farming Systems and Equipment (Level 3), which provides training across sheep, beef and dairy farming. Many learners also progress into the second year to complete the Massey Diploma in Agriculture (Level 5), opening doors to farm management roles.
Hamish Small, Head of Faculty, said it was welcome news for Telford staff who regularly see the impact of reduced barriers to entry. “This will also further assist SIT and Telford in continuing to be a vocational education provider of choice nationally.”
The announcement has been well received by those connected to the campus. Telford Work Experience Farm Hosts, Hamish and Larissa Brown, called it “awesome news” that would help more young people step into farming careers.
Telford Farm Board Chair, Richard Young, said the funding boost would hopefully encourage more students to take up training at Telford and benefit from its facilities.
Linda Moore, CE of Clutha Development and acting Chair of the Telford Advisory Group, added that the decision strengthened the region’s farming future. “We can embrace the future with confidence and move forward. Our community cares about Telford, and this is the best news we could possibly have.”