You may find it useful to do a college course in a relevant subject like a:

• Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
• Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration
• Level 3 Certificate in Accounting
• T Level in Management and Administration

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You could get into this job through a Business Administrator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or an Assistant Farm Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships can take up to 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

You could apply directly for jobs. Employers will usually ask for GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.

You'll also need experience of office administration and knowledge of bookkeeping.

You could take a training course through a professional body like The Institute of Agricultural Secretaries and Administrators.

You can take these courses whether you're working in the farming industry or are looking for a change of career.

You'll need:

• administration skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to work on your own
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be flexible and open to change
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As part of your day-to-day duties you could:

• use tailor-made agricultural business software
• keep records of livestock and crops to help with crop and stock planning
• apply for government grants and subsidies
• prepare farm business accounts and tax returns
• deal with wages and staff records
• cost, order and pay for equipment and supplies
• do typing, filing and other general administrative tasks
• keep up to date with farming, health and safety and tax laws

You could work in an office, from home or on a farm.