Careers chat and fun entertainment at local shows

The countdown is on for one of the country’s premier agricultural events and Longridge Towers School will be there supporting local business, young people and their families.

The School has long been a supporter of the summer agricultural shows and, with stands at the Border Union Show at Springwood Park in Kelso on Saturday 25 July, followed by the Berwickshire County Show in Duns on Saturday 1 August and the Glendale Show at Wooler on Saturday 29 August, we are encouraging pupils and families to join us.

It kicks off in Kelso on Friday and Saturday with a celebration of farming, food and rural life and over 500 horse, livestock and arts competitions, more than 200 trade stands – pop in for a refreshment at our stand – and the ever-popular Food Hall. The big main ring attraction on Saturday will be Joseph’s Amazing Camels – that is a unique show with races not to be missed!

On Friday morning, the popular Business Breakfast returns in partnership with the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), bringing together leaders from across agriculture, business, research and the rural economy. This year’s theme is “Perspectives on Agriculture” and will feature expert speakers exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, followed by an interactive discussion and audience Q&A.

Inspiring young people with Careers and Farming Hubs

New for 2026 is the Rural Careers Hub, aiming to inspire our next generation of young people considering a career in the rural economy, and Longridge staff and governors will be in attendance to discuss the launch of the School’s new BTEC Agriculture course in September. We will also help families, employers and further and higher education experts to explore the wide range of opportunities available across agriculture and the land-based sector, from apprenticeships and training to college and university courses, among the many varied and exciting pathways into rural careers.

Throughout both days, a programme of Spotlight Talks will feature professionals sharing their experiences and insights into careers in agriculture, education, engineering, environmental management and other rural industries.

Alongside this, the brand-new Farming Hub will provide an engaging and interactive space where visitors can learn more about modern farming. From sheep breeding and livestock management to genetics, animal health and sustainable farming practices, the Hub will give Longridge students a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and the skills involved in modern agriculture.

Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the Show, including Joseph’s Amazing Camels delivering an exciting display inspired by traditional Middle Eastern camel racing on Saturday afternoon. Children can enjoy the funfair, meet farm animals and alongside the gymkhana on Friday will be the popular, and free, Children’s Dog Show. Dogs are welcome throughout the event provided they are kept on leads – and we will be looking out for Longridge pupils and their pets.

Looking to future careers in farming

Show Chairman James Playfair-Hannay told us: “The Border Union Show has always been about bringing people together to celebrate the very best of agriculture and rural life. While our livestock competitions remain at the heart of the Show, it is equally important that we continue to look to the future of our industry.

“So, we’re delighted to introduce the Rural Careers Hub and Farming Hub, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the incredible range of careers available within the rural sector and to learn more about the innovation, knowledge and dedication that underpin modern farming.

“Whether you’re a farming family, a local resident or visiting the Borders for the first time, the Border Union Show offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to meet the people behind our food, enjoy first-class competition and entertainment, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make this event so special.”

Advance tickets are available online and available at the gate, with under-16s admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Gates open at 8am each day.

For more information and tickets, visit Border Union Agricultural Society.