The ninth edition of the AgroChallenge, which is being held in the UK for the first time, will take place at Easton College and the Royal Norfolk Show on June 24 and 25.

The college, outside Norwich, will field one of the four-strong teams chosen from land-based colleges in 18 European countries, who will compete in a series of 18 events.

At Easton, the students will take on hands-on, technical challenges to test their practical agricultural skills, problem-solving and teamwork through activities including precision tractor driving, reassembling a hydraulic system and seed recognition.

A sheep-herding challenge at AgroChallenge 2025 (Image: Laura Myles)

At the Royal Norfolk Show, the teams will step into the public arena to demonstrate their livestock knowledge, machinery skills, and real-time decision making.

The grand finale will see the teams going head-to-head in a fast-paced barrel race in the Grand Ring.

AgroChallenge 2026 is organised by EUROPEA (l’Europe de l’Enseignement Agronomique), an association working for the development of vocational education and training in the green sector of Europe.

Charlie Askew, work-based learning training coordinator at Easton College, and EUROPEA UK national coordinator, said: "The AgroChallenge is not just a competition. It is a celebration of Europe's next generation of farmers and a tribute to the spirit of agriculture - hard-working, passionate, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in community.

"This year’s AgroChallenge promises to be an enriching and memorable experience for the students, providing opportunities to connect with their peers and industry professionals from across Europe.

"It is also a chance to showcase their skills and inspire others to pursue careers in farming and the wider land-based sector."

Mark Nicholas, chief executive of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, said the Royal Norfolk Show is the "perfect place to celebrate the next generation of farmers in Europe", adding: "We look forward to welcoming the national teams and giving them a proper Norfolk experience."

Organisers of AgroChallenge 2026 are inviting local businesses to support the event with sponsorship of up to £2,000, to help provide accommodation and meals for the participants, as well as materials and equipment for the competition tasks.

To find out more, contact agrochallenge2026@ccn.ac.uk.

© Norwich Evening News