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Agriculture & Environment
Careers in agriculture and the environment are super important – they help keep our food fresh and our air clean, impacting everything we do every day.
⛰️ So what is agriculture and environment?
Agriculture and environment focuses on using, maintaining, and protecting natural resources – like the food we eat and the land we live on. With climate change and sustainability concerns rising, this sector is key to finding eco-friendly solutions and supporting local British farming.
Need more info? Ask an Apprentice
Considering an apprenticeship in this area of work? Or just unsure about uni? Our Ask an Apprentice community is made for you! Be mentored and chat with real apprentices, get application tips, and ask all your burning questions through our new platform.
What jobs can I do ?
Agricultural engineer
They design, install, and maintain agricultural machinery, while advising on sustainable practices for farms and forests – perfect for keeping tech and nature in harmony.
Botanist
Botanists study plant life, from rare wildflowers to crop genetics. Their work helps ensure biodiversity and adapt plants to a changing climate.
Ecologist
Ecologists study relationships between plants, animals, and the environment, assessing the impact of human activities on ecosystems – vital for protecting species and habitats.
Environmental consultant
Environmental consultants analyse pollution levels and advise companies on reducing their carbon footprint, ensuring land, air and water stay clean and safe.
Environmental manager
They help companies minimise environmental impact, manage waste, and develop green policies.
Environmental scientist
Environmental scientists study ecosystems and natural resources to protect the planet and public health, from managing water quality to reducing pollution.
Farmer
Farmers grow crops and raise livestock, working towards more sustainable farming practices that reduce carbon emissions and protect local biodiversity.
Farm manager
They oversee farm operations, from managing staff to planning sustainable crop rotations – helping farms thrive in a changing climate.
Florist
Florists use their creativity to design beautiful floral arrangements, often promoting locally grown, eco-friendly blooms.
Forest/woodland manager
They maintain forests and woodlands for timber production, conservation, and recreation, ensuring healthy growth in the face of climate challenges.
Gardener
Gardeners care for plants and green spaces, helping urban areas become more sustainable with community gardens and eco-friendly landscaping.
Horticultural manager
They manage the growth of plants in garden centres or parks, focusing on sustainable methods and new plant varieties.
Landscape architect
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces with nature in mind, from urban parks to rewilding projects, balancing aesthetics with environmental impact.
Meteorologist
Meteorologists study weather patterns and climate trends, helping predict extreme weather events and contributing to climate research.
Park and countryside ranger
They protect wildlife and manage public lands, keeping natural spaces thriving for visitors and future generations.
Recycling officer
They run local recycling programs, helping communities reduce waste and keep materials out of landfills.
Recycling operative
Recycling operatives collect and sort recyclables, ensuring materials like glass and paper find new life instead of ending up as waste.
Sustainability consultant
They advise businesses on how to reduce their environmental impact, from cutting emissions to using renewable energy – guiding companies towards a greener future.
Tree surgeon
Tree surgeons, or arborists, care for and maintain trees, ensuring urban greenery can withstand changing weather patterns.
What are the top skills?
🧩 Adaptability
Adapting to new techniques and technologies, like precision farming or eco-friendly practices, helps keep this industry moving forward.
🥾 Outdoor skills
Many roles involve working outside in all weather, from surveying land to planting trees – perfect for those who love being active in nature.
😊 People skills
Whether working with a team on a farm or educating communities about conservation, good vibes are essential for building positive relationships.
🏋🏾♀️ Physical fitness
It’s important for jobs like farming, gardening, and conservation work. Plus, being fit helps you keep up with outdoor tasks and long hours on your feet.
😬 Resilience
Resilience is key to adapting to weather challenges, seasonal work, and the unpredictability of nature – especially as climate change makes things less predictable.
How do I get started?
🛠️ What apprenticeships can I do?
Options range from ecology to forestry and farming, offering hands-on experience in everything from sustainable agriculture to conservation. Many UK National Parks and public bodies have programmes.
🎓 Is uni an option?
Yes! Degrees in fields like ecology, environmental science, or agriculture can open doors to specialised roles, and even research in climate change solutions.
👷🏽♀️ Could I do a vocational qualification at college?
Absolutely. BTECs in horticulture, environmental sciences, and animal management are great options, offering practical skills for careers in nature.
⭐ How can I stand out?
Get hands-on! Volunteering with conservation charities like the National Trust or joining community garden projects shows your passion for the environment.
What qualifications can I get?
What degree should I opt for?
Consider degrees in environmental science, ecology, agricultural engineering or plant science. They cover topics like climate adaptation, soil health, and sustainable practices.
What qualifications will an apprenticeship give me?
Apprenticeships offer practical qualifications in specific fields, like a diploma in countryside management or a technical certificate in arboriculture.
Can I get skills and qualifications on the job?
Yes! You can take short courses and workshops through agricultural colleges or professional bodies like the National Farmers Union, or work towards advanced credentials like chartered status.
5 fun facts you didn’t know
48 green apprenticeship schemes are up for grabs
Did you know there are 48 apprenticeship programmes in the UK focused on green jobs? That’s a whole bunch of opportunities for you to dive into eco-friendly careers while earning!
Sheep can recognise human faces
According to research by Cambridge University, sheep can recognise human faces! Even better, they prefer smiling faces. So, keep it positive when you’re out in the fields!
The UK is home to 70k species
The UK is rich in biodiversity, with over 70,000 species of plants, animals, and fungi. Protecting this variety is key to maintaining healthy ecosystems and combating climate change.
Trees can cut our A/C needs by a third
Urban trees aren’t just pretty; they can reduce air-conditioning needs by up to 30%. So we can save energy while beautifying our cities!
We need seeds!
Kew Gardens is home to the world’s largest seed bank. It’s a vital resource for preserving plant diversity and ensuring future crops – super important for fighting climate change!
Need more info? Ask an Apprentice
Considering an apprenticeship in this area of work? Or just unsure about uni? Our Ask an Apprentice community is made for you! Be mentored and chat with real apprentices, get application tips, and ask all your burning questions through our new platform.