An interest in rural career opportunities is growing with university applications for rural land management rising by 11%
A campaign aimed at attracting new talent to the rural professional sector gets under way this week.
The Route to Rural initiative starts on October 21 to shine a light on a wide range of roles including agricultural valuation, advising and working for farmers, landowners, environmental charities and infrastructure providers.
The Clarkson effect
An interest in rural career opportunities is growing with university applications for rural land management rising by 11%. The increase has been attributed to a growing awareness of agriculture fuelled by the success of Clarkson's Farm, which has been credited with altering perceptions and shown the rural economy in a new light.
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The campaign is backed by the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) which works closely with schools and universities by attending open days and careers fairs to provide young adults with guidance and raise awareness of necessary apprenticeships and education routes available to those with an interest in a career in the rural economy.
British Farming Award-winner Jeremy Moody, who is secretary and adviser at the CAAV said: "It has been refreshing to see an influx of young professionals take an interest in a career in the rural profession. Route to Rural week is all about building on this and opening conversations and opportunities.
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"The rural economy is growing and offers multiple career paths. While finding career opportunities may seem like finding a needle in a haystack, Route to Rural is about opening doors and showcasing what's on offer to inspire the next generation of talent."
You can find out more about the campaign, here: caav.org.uk
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