Frequently asked questions

Smedley’s two-year cadetship begins in mid-January each year and runs through to just before Christmas.

Applications close in early July, with interviews held in August and September. If you’re interested, it’s best to start preparing your application early and attend an Open Day in June.

You can apply online through the Smedley website using the “Apply Now” form.

The process includes:

• Submitting your application by the July deadline
• Being shortlisted (if selected) for an interview
• Attending an interview during August or September

You’ll be notified of the outcome shortly after interviews are completed.

To apply for Smedley, you must:

• Be between 16 and under 20 years old
• Be in at least your third year of secondary school
• Show a genuine interest in farming
• Be a team player with a strong work ethic

Smedley selects just 13 cadets each year, so enthusiasm, attitude, and willingness to learn are just as important as experience.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old and under 20 at the time of applying.

Smedley is designed specifically for school leavers and young people starting their farming careers, so it’s ideal if you’re finishing school and want a hands-on pathway into agriculture.

Yes. Open Days are held annually in June.

They usually run from 2:00pm to 4:30pm and give you a full introduction to the cadetship.

👉 Attendance is strongly encouraged for all applicants.

Check out the home page for the next open days.

No — you don’t need prior farming experience to apply.

Smedley is designed to teach you from the ground up, combining:

• Hands-on farm work
• Practical skill development
• Classroom-based theory

What matters most is your attitude, willingness to learn, and interest in farming.

You’ll gain a wide range of practical and theoretical farming skills, including:

• Sheep, cattle, and deer farming
• Stock handling, breeding, and animal health
• Fencing and farm maintenance
• Working with dogs and horses
• Vehicle and machinery operation
• Health and safety practices

You’ll also complete formal study through Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Hawkes Bay Campus, earning:

• Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills (Level 3)
• Certificate in Agriculture (Farming Systems) (Level 3)
• Certificate in Land Based Sustainability Practices (Level 3)
• Certificate in Agriculture – Breeding Livestock (Level 4)
• A Smedley practical certificate

Smedley provides working horses as part of the programme, although cadets will need their own saddle. A subsidy is provided to help with this cost.

As cadets progress through the programme, working dogs become part of training. Smedley helps cadets source suitable dogs and contributes towards feed, vet costs, and purchase support.

The Josiah Howard Foundation is an independent charitable organisation that helps preserve the legacy, values, and heritage of Smedley while supporting the development of former cadets. Through scholarships, leadership development, financial assistance, and alumni initiatives, the Foundation helps strengthen the Smedley community and invest in the future of New Zealand agriculture.

Smedley graduates are highly regarded in the farming industry.

Career pathways include:

• Farm work and stock management
• Shepherding roles
• Farm management progression
• Agribusiness and rural services
• Further study (with bursary support available)

Graduates are known for their:

• Strong work ethic
• Practical skills
• Confidence and independence

Yes — Smedley is a fully immersive, on-farm experience.

Cadets live on-site and are part of the day-to-day running of the farm. This includes:

• Working alongside experienced staff
• Living with other cadets
• Building strong friendships and teamwork

Food and accommodation are provided as part of the programme.

Smedley Station is a charitable trust, managed by Public Trust. It operates as a working commercial farm, with income supporting the cadet training programme. While there are no course fees to become a Smedley cadet, you will need to invest in your own saddle and working dog. The good news is that we will contribute towards these costs. Hostel accommodation and food is provided free of charge. While you’re training, you’ll receive a weekly allowance and an annual clothing allowance. You may be eligible for a Student Allowance, depending on government criteria.