Naturally Raised: The Organic Approach to Sheep Farming

Siobhain Hubbard is a full-time community worker and part time farmer, and her partner Ross Newcombe is a full time farmer. Siobhain and Ross are both passionate about rural life, sustainability, and creating meaningful change from the ground up. They run a small organic farm where they raise sheep, pigs, chickens & grow their own produce, all with care and integrity, bringing honest food to local tables and serving hot pork rolls at festivals & events. Siobhan works daily to support rural development, empower local projects, and strengthen food systems that put people and place first. Whether it’s in muddy boots or at a meeting table, she believes in the power of community, connection, and a good dose of determination.

This one day course offers a comprehensive introduction to organic sheep farming, combining essential theory with hands-on practical learning. Whether you're new to sheep or transitioning to organic, you will be guided through the key principles of managing a healthy, productive flock in line with organic standards.In the classroom, topics such as soil health, pasture management, breeding, animal welfare, parasite control, organic certification, and farm planning, will be covered. On the ground, you will gain experience with handling sheep, assessing health and body condition, rotational grazing, lambing prep, and low-stress flock management. Designed to be practical, honest, and rooted in real farm experience, the course empowers participants to build confidence and knowledge in running an organic sheep enterprise.

What You’ll Learn: 

• Understand the core principles and standards of organic sheep farming.
• Be able to plan and manage pasture using rotational and regenerative grazing methods.
• Identify key health indicators in sheep and apply preventative care practices in line with organic guidelines.
• Have practical experience in low-stress sheep handling, lambing preparation, and daily flock care.
• Know how to manage common issues such as parasites, mineral deficiencies, and breeding cycles organically.
• Be familiar with the organic certification process and record-keeping requirements.
• Feel confident developing or improving an organic sheep enterprise on their own farm.

Good to Know:

• As we’ll spend time walking and learning around the farm please bring suitable clothing and footwear - and allow for changeable weather!
• Refreshments and Lunch included; eat alongside our students, cookery school teachers, farm staff, gardeners and visiting experts
• The course is held at Ballymaloe Cookery School’s Organic Farm and Gardens in Shanagarry, Co. Cork P25 R274
• Tea and Coffee with whatever’s fresh out of the oven will be served from 8:30am on the first day of the course so please arrive early to sign in, meet other students and get ready for a busy day of hands on learning