Charlie Baldwyn

Brecon, Powys

Charlie Baldwyn from Brecknock balances his time between his responsibilities on the family’s upland farm and working towards attaining his Diploma in Work-based Agriculture. Charlie’s desire to develop a future working in agriculture was cemented in 2017 with the family making the move from England to take on a block of 299 hectares (ha) in Brecknock. From feeding and caring for the suckler beef herd and ewes, to helping to run the commercial pheasant shoot, Charlie plays a proactive role in the day to day running of the business. 

Not one to shy away from any practical work, Charlie has a very useful interest in fabrication. Often found in his own workshop, Charlie puts his skills to good use maintaining implements with repairs and even designing equipment and machinery. 

Work aside, Charlie credits the Young Farmers Clubs (YFC) for making new friends and expanding his knowledge of farming and Welsh culture since making the move across the border. As a member of Pontfaen YFC, he has extended his practical skillset through competing in hedge-laying competitions and even treading the boards, thanks to the annual drama competition. 

Charlie acknowledges that he is fortunate that his family has allowed him to take control of certain aspects of the farm since finishing school which have complemented his studies and, in the future, he would like to successfully run the family business.

“Being part of the 2021 Agri Academy, I hope to be able to learn how to navigate challenges in agriculture whilst discovering industry tips from mentors and gain insight from specialists in their field. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to discuss my experiences from working at home on the family farm with other like-minded people. I’m confident that the access to advice the Academy will offer will be beneficial for my future by improving my professional development.”