The British Poultry Council will host the launch on the first day of the fair, 11 May, at 2.30pm in the North Hospitality Room of the Blackdown Buildings, at Stoneleigh Park in Kenilworth.

The scheme brings together a number of employers who will support students by paying up to two years of fees for their higher education course at Harper Adams and provide them with a paid position for their compulsory work placement year.

The University College has been in discussions with poultry companies about ways to improve the flow of young graduates into the sector, where there is a clear skills gap.

Harper Adams Principal, Dr David Llewellyn, said: "We are committed to encouraging young people to consider a career in the poultry sector, where there are good prospects and a stimulating business environment that will require a good supply of capable managers and future leaders. Harper Adams has a long history of working with the poultry industry and we welcome the support of many of its major companies in bringing about this important cross-sector initiative."

Tuesday’s launch is sponsored by Vencomatic, and the scheme is supported by Aviagen, Bernard Matthews, Cargill, Cobb, Cranberry Foods, Kelly Bronze, P.D. Hook and Vion.

Harper Adams students who have already secured poultry company scholarships and placements will be available to speak to at the Fair.