The Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) brings together young people in rural Scotland who are interested in agricultural and the countryside, and has done since its creation in 1938. As the association has  evolved, the main ethos has remained constant, to offer personal development opportunities for young people.

Our unique organisation led by the members for the members, has encouraged members to think and speak for  themselves.  With this in mind the original young farmers motto created in the 1950’s still remains relevant today  “Better Farmers, Better Countrymen, Better Citizens” 

Membership is open to anyone between 14 and 30 years of age, and with more than 80 clubs across Scotland  affiliated with the association, anyone who is interested in joining will find a club near them. The current motto “Not just for those who wear wellies” enhances that the association is not just for farmers, and many of the current members do not work, live or indeed coming from a farming background. SAYFC is for anyone who would like to be part of a youth organisation where they can gain personal development that will undoubtedly benefit them during their time as a Young Farmer, and in their future.

Activities range from stockjudging and art & craft competitions to sports events, drama, farm/producer visits and  dances. However members can gain as much or as little out of the association as they wish, there is no requirement to take part in any element. Browse through our website to find out more about the opportunities, events and competitions on offer through SAYFC.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

As a member-led organisation the structure is set so that the strategic vision is directed by members. We believe that this is important not just because it makes for an effective membership body, but it also helps equip members with the skills they will need to lead, make decisions, empower and be active citizens in a democracy.

The life skills picked up via membership of SAYFC are vast whether through participation in one of our many competitions or simply through the making of decisions as they manage their own clubs.

Our members value this trust and responsibility placed in them.

SOCIAL NETWORK

SAYFC is unique in that the members play a key role in the decision making at all levels within the movement. The rock on which the association is built is each club and its members. With over 3,000 members the Young Farmers movement provides a  crucial social network for the youth or rural Scotland, and in some cases brings individuals in isolated parts of Scotland together.

Events at all levels National, Regional, District and Club bring members with common interests together offering opportunities to create new friendships that in many cases last a lifetime.

ACTIVE CITIZENS

Young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own futures and to take an interest in contemporary issues that affect their lives. In addition to the many opportunities SAYFC present to each individual, members continue to build relationships with local communities all over Scotland – and further afield.  

Young Farmers are members of a caring organisation which is part of the local community, whether this is donating labour hours to revamp a hospice garden, giving blood or raising funds for other charities. Members take whatever challenge is put in front of them in their stride.

Local communities continue to benefit directly and indirectly from this relationship. These have been developed over years and continue to be worked on with the skills of members being put into action. Tens of thousands of pounds are donated to charities by Young Farmers every year.

Whilst the clubs are charities themselves, members regularly work with other charities and local community organisations. Skills gained through the Young Farmers structure are transferable, with members having the skills the communicate well in other groups and committees.