RURAL CAREER OPTIONS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Ellie Harrison of BBC TV's Countryfile will launch the third careers event, shining a spotlight on the wide range of highly skilled career paths and opportunities in the food, farming and environmental sectors.

Held at Askham Bryan College, York, on Thursday 8th November, Ms Harrison is the conference's keynote speaker. She will address business leaders and careers advisors from across the North of England stressing the importance of raising the profile of the vast array of options available to young people.

Entitled: "A Future in Food Farming & The Environment, A Career to Consider", it follows last year's successful conference which was attended by more than 100 delegates. And there are a number of new sectors for this year, adding to the scope of the event.

Steve Willis, Chair of the Food, Farming and Rural Network said: "There's huge potential for talented young people in the rural sector but sadly all too often they aren't aware of the choices out there.”

“The range of careers we are showcasing is extensive and has expanded again this year - we now have everyone from plcs such as Waitrose, Pfizer and Arla, through to farm shops, the National Apprenticeship Scheme and the Institute of Agricultural Secretaries is also with us for the first time. This shows that rurally orientated careers are varied, demanding, often hugely technical and skilled."

The Network is organising the event, which is free to delegates, in partnership with Askham Bryan College.

After the introduction, delegates can tour the college campus where options and career paths in five sectors are presented - "From Farm to Fork" – which highlights the many and varied aspects of food production,  "Going Green" - for careers in the environmental sector; and careers in the business, the equine industry and science.  Representatives from businesses and organisations across all the sectors will be available to give more detail and talk through the opportunities.

Pre registration is required. Lunch is provided. For a free place and for further information contact 01904 772269 or email marketing@askham-bryan.ac.uk

The conference is organised in partnership with The Yorkshire Food, Farming & Rural Network, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and SCY, formerly Science City York.

ENDS

11 October 2012  

Event contact:  Elizabeth Hudson on elizabethh@yas.co.uk or markting@askham-bryan.ac.uk. Tel: 07904 772269

Media contact:  Judy Thompson on 07903 326170 or email judyt@yas.co.uk