Rural careers week starts across UK

A national campaign launch on Tuesday 21 October will showcase the wide range of professional careers available in the countryside, as Route to Rural Week begins across the UK.

Led by the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV), the initiative aims to highlight career paths in land management, farming, valuation, environment, property and rural infrastructure.

Designed for students, school leavers, career changers and graduates, the campaign opens the door to jobs that support the rural economy.

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As the CAAV explained: “There’s a whole world of opportunities within the rural sector that offer life-changing benefits and job security for youngsters.”

Route to Rural week will begin with a free online Virtual Insight Day webinar, running from 10am to 12:30pm on 21 October.

The event features presentations from professionals and employers across the sector, introducing participants to career options, skills development and the realities of working in the countryside.

Attendees will gain insight into roles spanning agriculture, technology, the environment, health and infrastructure.

There will be a focus on developing entrepreneurial thinking, practical land management, and food technology.

The CAAV, which represents agricultural valuers across all four UK nations, is at the heart of the initiative.

“As agricultural valuers, we work with both agriculture and the whole rural economy, we value and give much wider advice as trusted advisers, drawing on a broad range of skills,” it said.

With rising demand for rural expertise, the profession continues to grow.

“The CAAV now has 250 more qualified Fellows and almost 100 more in training than it had eight years ago – a 16% increase in both categories,” it said.

Participation is encouraged from people of all backgrounds, including urban areas and those seeking a second career.

To find out more and sign up for the webinar, visit the Route to Rural website.