The Co-operative Farms have launched a new agricultural apprenticeship scheme across six of their farms.

They are looking for 8 people who are passionate about fresh food and the outdoors and who want to become the future of farming. The agricultural industry has an ageing population of employees and this scheme aims to prepare a younger generation to become the farming talent of the future.

As the UK’s largest farmer, you could have the opportunity to work with leading edge, highly sophisticated technology, such as auto-steering and GPS mapping and trickle irrigation controlled via a mobile phone.

If you have an interest in fresh produce, one of the placements on the Co-Op's fruit farm in Hereford or Kent, or perhaps at Wisbech where they grow vegetables, would be ideal for you.

And because it is of The Co-operative Food, this is your chance to work for one of the UK’s leading food retailers. The Co-operative is different. It’s big. It’s exciting. It’s ethical. And it’s here for the benefit of everyone.

About the apprenticeship

The Co-operative Farms is working with Reaseheath College in Cheshire, who will be the training providers for the scheme. Reaseheath College is recognised as one of the leading land-based Colleges in the country and has an excellent reputation for the quality of its Further and Higher Education.

Once on the scheme, students will get the chance to complete an agricultural NVQ up to level three, which they will be given two to three years to complete depending on their level of experience.

You will be required to carry out basic tasks on arable and fruit farms under supervision as required, as well as assisting in seasonal duties to ensure that crop production is maximised.

You need to be willing to develop new skills and attend regular residential training courses. This apprenticeship involves some physical work, along with occasional unsociable hours and work at weekends.

Opportunities are available in the following locations; Cirencester, Daventry, Hereford, Wisbech, Kent and Coldstream.