How to become a farmer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- agriculture
- land management
- farm business management
- crop and livestock production
Courses and qualifications are available at agricultural colleges and universities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could start your career in farming by doing a course at an agricultural college like:
- Level 2 Certificate in Land-based Activities
- Level 3 Diploma in Agriculture
- T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production
This could teach you some of the skills and knowledge you might need in this job.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could get farming experience through an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship like:
- General Farm Worker Level 2
- Poultry Technician Level 3
- Livestock Unit Technician Level 3
- Crop Technician Level 3
You could also apply to do an Assistant Farm Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, if you want to work in farm management.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could get management experience by working as a supervisor, unit manager or assistant manger before moving into farm management.
You could also take qualifications on the job like the Level 4 Certificate in Work-based Agricultural Management.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could become a member of the National Farmers Union (NFU) to keep up to date with the farming industry.
The National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs also supports young people in agricultural work and those interested in rural life.
You could join to:
- learn new skills
- enter competitions
- network with other young people
Further information
You can get more information about farming careers from Tasty Careers, The Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture and LANTRA.