While studying at a farming school, fifteen-year-old Mathieu also carries out an apprenticeship at Paul's small dairy farm high on the plateau in the Doubs region. Apart from learning about Paul's working methods, Paul must also adapt himself to family life, find his bearings and stake out his place.

While working together, bonds form between Mathieu and Paul. The close, daily contact teaches Mathieu what he could not learn in the classroom, for Paul also replaces the teenager's absent father.