king charles iii He's looking for a shepherd to look after his 2,000 royal sheep – but they must have their own dog.
The Sandringham Estate is advertising for a skilled shepherd with at least two years’ experience to look after the Monarch’s herd of 2,000 Aberfields.
The farm at Sandringham Estate has 200 hectares of permanent grass for breeding sheep and Beef Shorthorn based cattle.
The criteria required to become the King's newest Shepherd include having your own working dog, a fully clean British driving licence and the right to live and work in the UK.
The job advert on its website states: “This role will involve day-to-day herding work, as well as some assistance with the winter housing of the beef herd and calving in the spring.
“A passion for livestock, an open mind, and a willingness to learn and grow alongside new systems will be key to being successful in this role.”
It adds that the successful candidate will be a self-motivated team player who will be “able to maintain the highest standards of animal welfare”.
It also states that they must have their own working dog or dogs and hold a full driving licence.
The estate’s organically reared sheep are used to produce “premium supermarket retailer-ready lamb”.
Their numbers were increased in 2019 by the then Prince Charles because their beets would help fertilise the sandy soil.
The king has revolutionized farming on the 21,000-acre estate, which he inherited after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.
Besides adopting organic farming practices, he has also reintroduced rare cattle breeds, put up fences and helped breed rare birds.
The job ad suggests the new shepherd must embrace King’s philosophy regarding caring for the land.
It adds: “A passion for livestock, an open mind and a willingness to learn and develop alongside an innovative system will be vital to being successful in this role.”
Last date for application is 27th September.
