A student at Nyandarua National Polytechnic has offered a firsthand account of working as a seasonal farm labourer in the United Kingdom, highlighting the earning opportunities, demanding work schedule and personal growth that come with the programme.
Grace, who is pursuing agriculture at the institution, said recruitment agencies regularly visit selected agricultural colleges in Kenya to identify students for seasonal employment on British farms.
The agencies conduct interviews on campus before selecting successful applicants for six-month placements.
According to Grace, successful candidates receive sponsorship for the temporary work programme, allowing them to travel to the UK during the peak harvesting season before returning to Kenya to continue with their studies.
She explained that the work primarily involves harvesting strawberries, a physically demanding task that requires employees to spend between 10 and 12 hours in the fields each day.
Despite the long working hours, Grace said the financial rewards make the opportunity worthwhile.
Seasonal workers earn about £12.71 (approximately Sh2,270) per hour, enabling many participants to save a significant portion of their income while abroad.
Accommodation is provided on the farms at a cost of about £77 (around Sh13,800) per week. The fee covers housing as well as utilities, including water and electricity, helping workers keep their living expenses manageable while maximising their savings.
Grace said the programme offers more than financial benefits. In addition to earning an income, participants gain exposure to a different culture and have the opportunity to travel across the UK during their days off.
She noted that the earnings had given her financial independence and laid the groundwork for future investments and other long-term financial goals.
Grace urged students interested in the programme to take recruitment opportunities seriously whenever agencies visit their institutions, advising them to prepare adequately for the interview process.
Upon completing the six-month contracts, participants return to Kenya, where they either resume their studies or invest their earnings in businesses and other personal ventures.
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