A group of eight students on the McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmer scheme have spent the day with The Lakes Free Range Egg Company to learn about egg production. One of the students, Harry Morley, has spent his work placement with the egg firm and helped host the day.
Morley introduced chief executive David Brass, and the agriculture team, then gave a presentation on his personal journey in his placement working at The Lakes.
Touring the packing centre, the group saw how over one million eggs a day are packed and despatched to customers including McDonald’s.
The students visited the chick-rearing facilities and learned from pullet rearing farm manager Lesley Allick, before travelling to visit a flock of free-range hens. They learned about the different production systems, the method of collecting the eggs, management techniques, different breeds of hens, their natural diets, and the colours of the eggs they produce.
Commenting on the day Morley said: “It was a great opportunity to reflect on my time on the McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmer Scheme and with my Lakes placement. There are many ways the program has benefited me – both professionally and personally.
“Coming from Lincolnshire, I knew very little about working with poultry. I now know the work involved – from rearing chicks, visiting producers, and looking after laying hens, to production, packing and delivery to McDonald’s. I have also had the opportunity to work in the Kendal McDonald’s restaurant, so can really appreciate what goes into an Egg McMuffin.”
Harry will leave his placement in August before returning to Harper Adams University to complete his degree.