Beyond Borders: British Society of Soil Science Team Competes at International Soil Judging Contest in China
British Society of Soil Science (BSSS) Early Career members Jessica Brook, Theodore Heaton-Davis, Cairo Robb, Thomas Smith, and coach Jay Ryan
For a group of emerging soil scientists from the United Kingdom, the journey to the 5th International Soil Judging Contest in China was about far more than competition. It was an opportunity to learn, collaborate, exchange knowledge, and build lasting connections with peers from around the world.
The UK team featuring British Society of Soil Science (BSSS) Early Career members Jessica Brook, Theodore Heaton-Davis, Cairo Robb, Thomas Smith, and coach Jay Ryan, joined participants from 18 teams representing 14 countries for the prestigious event, hosted by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) and the Soil Science Society of China.
Before the competition officially began, participants took part in an intensive programme designed to sharpen both practical and theoretical soil science skills. The team visited local academies, research institutes, and the Soil Museum, gaining valuable insights into China's rich soil science heritage and ongoing research initiatives.
The preparation programme also included lectures on soil judging theory, hands-on field training, and mock examinations, providing competitors with an opportunity to refine their skills in soil description, classification, interpretation, and sampling techniques.
For many participants, one of the greatest benefits of the event extended beyond the technical training itself. Bringing together students, researchers, and educators from across continents created a unique environment for professional development and cultural exchange.
“We had a brilliant week competing at the World Soil Judging Competition in Nanjing, China. It was amazing to meet so many international soil scientists and learn from leaders in the field, before putting our knowledge into practice at the competition. Classifying soils in a completely new environment was both challenging and rewarding, and a fantastic way to build our skills!” - Jess Brook, BSSS EC Member
Throughout the week, competitors shared experiences from their own countries and landscapes, discussing everything from soil management challenges and agricultural systems to emerging research priorities and career pathways in soil science.
The International Soil Judging Contest has become an important platform for developing the next generation of soil scientists. By combining field-based learning with international collaboration, the event helps build the practical skills, critical thinking, and global networks needed to address some of the world's most pressing soil and land management challenges.
“We were delighted to support Early Career members from the British Society of Soil Science in the International Soil Judging competition. Soil judging is a relatively new discipline in the UK so we were keen to support it and use this as a way to engage more people in soil science. Not only was this a great opportunity to develop their soil description and classification skills, it was also a way to connect with the global soil science community. The competition provided a wonderful platform for soil science practitioners and researchers to come together and further their knowledge about soil science. It is initiatives like this that help us develop personally and professionally, whilst also benefitting the industry as a whole.” - Andy Morris, BSSS Executive Director
As global attention increasingly turns toward soil health, food security, climate resilience, and sustainable land management, opportunities like the International Soil Judging Contest play a vital role in preparing future leaders within the discipline.
For the BSSS team, the experience has already proven valuable regardless of the final standings. The chance to learn from international experts, work alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, and test their skills in a challenging field environment has provided lessons that will extend far beyond the competition itself.
Competition Results
Following a week of intensive learning and competition, Team USA Stripes claimed top honours at the 5th International Soil Judging Contest, followed by Team USA Stars in second place and Team Germany in third. The competition highlighted the growing global community of soil scientists committed to advancing soil knowledge and stewardship.
The Coalition of Action for Soil Health congratulates Jessica, Theodore, Cairo, Thomas, and Jay on representing the United Kingdom on the international stage and contributing to the growing global community of soil scientists working to better understand and steward the soils upon which we all depend.
