Reaseheath Centre for Dairy Automation and Robotic Milking
Reaseheath College
Reaseheath Centre for Dairy Automation and Robotic Milking
Reaseheath College
The Centre for Dairy Automation and Robotic Milking at Reaseheath College will respond to the skills needs of the dairy sector in Cheshire and Warrington, the north west region, and the wider dairy industry.
Cheshire has the second largest population, by county, of dairy cows in England with 93,000 adult breeding animals on around 450 farms. When neighbouring counties within one hour driving time of Reaseheath College are included, there are 295,000 adult breeding animals on some 1,600 farms (approximately 25% of the dairy cow population).
It is estimated that 900-1,000 farms in England and Wales are now using automatic milking systems (around 10% of all farms). Industry data indicates that 50% of dairy farms will need to move to robotic milking systems over the next 10 years in order to remain viable.
The dairy industry is facing significant challenges in attracting/recruiting trained and skilled labour for the robotic milking sector. This is expected to continue whilst at the same time, training, education and skills provision relating to automation, robotics and data management and use, throughout the region, is limited.
Potential employment opportunities within Cheshire and neighbouring counties may be as high as 800 digital and STEM skilled workers over a 10-year period. As such, the Centre at Reaseheath College will play a significant role in creating future high-quality jobs by providing people with the skills and training, as well as changing the mindset within the sector.
Geographical area
Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire. The equipment and facilities are located at Reaseheath College. There are no mobile facilities.
Technologies / Equipment
- Two robotic milking machines
- Animal handling facilities
- Nutrition, feeding, watering systems
- Data capture, processing and utilisation facility
Skills being developed
- Training, education and skills provision relating to automation, robotics and data management and use
- New programmes of learning, bespoke training packages, CPD and workshops, and virtual and remote learning material for the emerging areas of digitalisation, robotics and data-driven dairy management
Contact: Sharon Yates