For the past 11 years, agriculture teacher Libby Dawes has been co-ordinating the cattle team and equestrian programs at the Scots School (which merged with All Saints College in Bathurst to become Scots All Saints College in 2019).

Every Monday and Wednesday mornings - at the crack of dawn - students from Years 8 to 12 meet on the farm at Scots campus on O'Connell Road to prepare their Limousin, Angus, Blue E and Charolais steers to be ready for the ring.

The 30 students from the first ever combined Scots All Saints College Cattle Team have dedicated many hours over the past four months to train their steers for cattle judging at upcoming local, regional and Sydney country shows, including this Saturday's Blayney Show. 

"There is a wonderful sense of comradery among the students and I'm so impressed by their positive attitude and commitment to this program," Mrs Dawes said.

"Some are new to showing cattle but have totally embraced the experience, while others have been part of the team for the past six years and are now mentoring others." 

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Despite the challenges of the drought and grain costs, 23 steers are being prepared by the students.

"While we always aim to excel and do the best possible, regardless of how successful we are, this is a highly challenging and rewarding program for our students in so many ways, who not only build skills in animal husbandry, but teamwork, leadership and resilience -  which are very important traits for our young people," Mrs Dawes said.

"Many parents and families support the program by assisting with training and providing their experience and knowledge which is so valuable to our students."

Mrs Dawes encourages people to come to the show and support the students, many of whom have entered the Young Rural Achievers at the Bathurst Show.

Scots All Saints College Cattle Team will compete at the Blayney Show this Saturday, the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April (in competitions including the Hoof and Hook), and at the Bathurst Show, May 3 to 5.