A farmer is responsible for producing food and other products by growing crops, raising animals, or both. Farmers in the UK may work on arable farms (producing crops such as wheat, barley, and vegetables), livestock farms (raising cattle, sheep, pigs, or poultry), or mixed farms that combine both. Daily tasks include planting, harvesting, feeding and caring for animals, maintaining equipment, and managing farm business operations. Farmers also need to keep up with regulations, sustainable practices, and market trends to ensure their farms are productive and environmentally friendly. It is a physically demanding job, often requiring long hours, particularly during planting and harvest seasons.
The average salary for a farmer in the UK ranges from £20,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on the type and size of the farm.
There are around 170,000 people employed in agricultural roles, including farmers, in the UK as of 2023.
The UK has over 216,000 farm holdings, covering a variety of crops and livestock production.
Works specifically with cows or goats to produce milk, cheese and other dairy products.
Focuses on growing vegetables using organic methods, often selling produce at local markets or through farm shops.
Specialises in raising chickens, turkeys or ducks for eggs or meat production.
Research the main types of farming, such as arable (crops), livestock (animals), or mixed farming.
Understanding the various areas of farming will help you decide where your interests lie. You can do this by reading books, watching documentaries, or visiting local farms. Many schools and colleges offer visits or work experience on farms, which can provide valuable insight.
Connect with farmers in your area to find out about their daily routines and the challenges they face.
Visiting a farm and speaking to people who work there can help you get a realistic view of the job. Farmers can offer advice and may even let you help out for a day or two, giving you direct experience.
Apply for part-time or seasonal work on a farm to gain hands-on experience.
Farm work can include looking after animals, planting or harvesting crops, and maintaining equipment. Experience is essential for understanding the demands of farm life. Many farms offer voluntary placements or apprenticeships, which can be found through local job centres or agricultural colleges.
Focus on building skills such as machinery operation, animal care, and basic maintenance.
Farmers often need to operate tractors, combine harvesters, and other agricultural machinery. Learning how to repair equipment and care for animals is also important. Training courses are available at agricultural colleges and some adult learning centres.
Consider enrolling in an agricultural course at GCSE, A level, or college level.
Many colleges and universities offer courses in agriculture, animal management, farm business management, or related fields. These programmes cover both practical and theoretical aspects of farming and may include placements on working farms.
Look for apprenticeships or higher education opportunities to gain specialist knowledge.
Apprenticeships combine practical work with study and can lead to recognised qualifications. Alternatively, you could progress to a degree in agriculture or a related discipline if you wish to learn more about the science and business of farming.
Apply for jobs on established farms or consider leasing land to start your own smallholding.
You can find work as a farm worker, assistant, or manager, depending on your experience and qualifications. If you plan to start your own farm, you will need to research land availability, funding options, and legal requirements such as health and safety or environmental regulations.
Stay up to date with new farming methods and technology.
Farming is always changing due to innovations and environmental considerations. Joining industry groups or attending agricultural shows can help you learn about the latest trends and technologies, and build a network of professional contacts.
Agricultural technicians support farmers by testing soil, monitoring crops, and advising on best practices to improve farm productivity.
Farm managers oversee the day-to-day running of a farm, including planning, staff management, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations.
Horticulturists specialise in growing fruit, vegetables, flowers, or ornamental plants, often working in greenhouses, nurseries, or market gardens.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Farmer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
Courses and qualifications are available at agricultural colleges and universities.
You'll usually need:
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:
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
You could apply to do an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship, for example:
You could also apply to do an Assistant Farm Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, if you want to work in farm management.
You'll usually need:
You could get management experience by working as a supervisor, unit manager or assistant manager before moving into farm management.
Farmers work long hours especially during busy periods, such as lambing season and harvest time.
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:
You can get more information about farming careers from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
