As part of Route to Rural Week, Armitstead Barnett is celebrating the career opportunities available across the rural sector and highlighting the different pathways into the profession.  From apprenticeships to university degrees and graduate opportunities, there is no single route into rural surveying.  Each pathway offers the chance to develop valuable skills and build a rewarding career.

We are proud to support the next generation of rural surveyors, investing in our team and helping individuals progress at every stage of their professional journey.

The apprenticeship route is a relatively new concept within the surveying profession, but it has grown over recent years, providing an alternative pathway for those looking to combine study with hands on experience.  Apprentices can develop their knowledge and skills while gaining valuable experience in the workplace and learning directly from experienced professionals.

Rachel Webster is in her second year, Grace Allan and Harry Slater are in their third year of the five year degree apprenticeship scheme studying Rural Enterprise and Land Management at Harper Adams University.  Each are continuing to build their knowledge and experience as they work towards their degree and professional qualifications.

Sophie Barker completed her five year degree apprenticeship in June 2026 and has since qualified as a Chartered Surveyor with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). 

Alongside our apprenticeship programme, Armitstead Barnett also welcomes Graduates into the profession.  Megan Metcalfe and George Wilkinson joined the firm following the completion of their studies at Harper Adams University, bringing with them a strong academic foundation and enthusiasm for the rural sector.

Since joining Armitstead Barnett, Megan has qualified as a Chartered Surveyor with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has become a Fellow of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV).  George joined us earlier in 2026 and is currently working towards these professional qualifications, continuing to develop his expertise and experience.

Route to Rural Week is an opportunity to showcase the breadth of careers available across the rural sector and encourage more people to consider the opportunities on offer.  

As the agricultural and rural sectors continue to evolve, attracting and developing new talent is essential to the future of the profession.  Whether through an apprenticeship, a graduate pathway or a change of career, there are many ways to build a rewarding career in rural surveying.

We are delighted to support our team as they take the next steps in their careers and proud to play a part in developing the next generation of rural professionals.