Description
Farmers and related occupations cultivate arable crops, fruits and trees, and raise cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and other livestock for consumption.
Tasks
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Feeds and waters animals, takes responsibility for livestock health and welfare, treats minor ailments and calls vet if necessary
plants, propagates, sprays, fertilises and harvests field crops
undertakes farm maintenance tasks such as fencing, hedging, cleaning and building maintenance
operates and maintains farm machinery such as combine harvesters, straw balers, milking machines and tractors
arranges for the sale of crops, livestock and other farm produce
maintains records of production, finance and breeding
ensures good environmental practice is observed in all tasks
Educational Requirements
No formal academic qualifications are required, but prior practical farming experience is normally needed. Training is typically received on-the-job and via a variety of vocational qualifications in agriculture, including NVQs/SVQs at Levels 1 to 4. Apprenticeships are also available in some areas.