Cost of Farm Experience Days
across the UK

# Farm Experience Days: Trade Body Accreditation

Farm experience days in the UK are typically governed by several key regulatory and trade bodies depending on the specific activities offered. The main bodies include the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which sets mandatory safety standards for all farm-based activities; APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency), which regulates animal contact and welfare compliance; and sector-specific bodies such as the National Farmers' Union (NFU), which provides guidance and insurance frameworks for member farms offering visitor experiences. For activities involving higher-risk elements like quad biking or tractor driving, the LANTRA scheme (Land-based Qualifications) offers formal accreditation to trainers and venues. Additionally, farms may seek Quality Scheme for Heritage Attractions (QSHA) accreditation or membership of the Farm Attraction Network, both of which verify operational standards and visitor experience quality. Understanding which bodies apply to your chosen provider helps establish whether they meet professional standards for safety, insurance, and animal welfare.

To verify a provider's credentials, start by checking their website and marketing materials for specific accreditation logos or membership claims, then independently confirm these through the relevant trade body's official register or member directory. The HSE does not issue certificates but you can check whether a farm has been inspected or has an active enforcement record using the HSE public register. For animal welfare compliance, Defra's Farm Assurance Scheme database is searchable, and you can contact APHA directly to verify licenses. Cross-referencing multiple sources matters because it confirms the provider's commitment to accountability and provides recourse if something goes wrong. An accredited provider will readily supply accreditation numbers and encourage verification; reluctance to do so is a red flag. Beyond the regulatory basics, accreditation demonstrates that a farm has been independently assessed for visitor safety, proper equipment maintenance, staff training, and animal care standards.