How to become
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 do a course at agricultural college to learn some of the skills you'll need to start your career in farming.
Courses include:
- agriculture
- land-based operations
- T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship, for example:
- 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 manager before moving into farm management.
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Career tips
Farmers work long hours especially during busy periods, such as lambing season and harvest time.
Professional and industry bodies
You could become a member of the National Farmers Union (NFU) to keep up to date with developments in 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
- keep up to date with rural issues
- network with other young people
Further information
You can get more information about farming careers from: