Rural Business career GATEWAY Course - APPLY NOW

Course Outcome: Successful delegates will have the necessary confidence and understanding to effectively apply their previous career experience to leadership roles in the land-based sector.

A unique gateway course designed specifically for those transitioning from the armed forces into agriculture, food and the wider land-based sector.

The course will feature:

- pre-course individual career coaching session

- 2 week residential course (no teaching at the weekend)

- several study visits to rural businesses

- small study-groups in a course of 20 maximum

- access to the university's specialist library, innovation centre and incubation hub

- expert teaching and mentoring from leading academics  and industry leaders

- opportunities to network with potential employers

- post-course follow-up career coaching session

No former business or agricultural/food experience is required.

STATEMENT REGARDING IMPACT OF COVID-19

Covid delayed our original launch plans and forced some unwanted changes on delivery plans. However, the course will run as a fully in-person experience in Cirencester starting on 6 June. We will, of course, put in place such necessary measures as are required at the time, in accordance with government guidance.

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW LIVE

If you have questions, please email fiona@ruralink.org.uk

What will I learn?

You will learn how rural businesses work and visit several to hear from their owners and managers. You will progressively put this practical experience in the context of study of current issues around food production, land management and the UK economy. Get a flavour by watching the course leader, Professor John Wibberley, give a micro lecture in the attached video.

Who can attend?

Any former or serving member of the armed forces or spouse who is interested in developing a follow-on career in management within the land-based sector, including agri-food, farming, horticulture and related rural business.

What is the entry standard?

We do not expect to require any specific academic standards for personnel who have served in a leadership role at any rank. Delegates will be asked to work in small teams and may be asked to present group work to the wider course. If this may be challenging to you, please email courses@ruralink.org.uk with your specific query.

Who is accrediting this course?

The ROYAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY which was graded in the top 10 UK universities in 2019.

What is the course fee?

Just £2400 for the whole 2 weeks.

Can I pay with ELCs?

Yes, the course is eligible for a single ELC payment. This means you could pay £400 and claim £2000. The course is listed on ELCAS website under RAU Provider number 1718 as "Rural Business Career Gateway". 

Is there accommodation?

Yes, there is accommodation available at the university. We will also provide a list of convenient nearby hotels for those who prefer to make there own arrangements. 

Attendees are strongly encouraged to take meals together in order to help build course cohesion. 

When considering what accommodation options works for you, please bear in mind that there will be after dinner speakers most evenings.

Can I go on to further study?

Yes, the RAU is working to ensure that this course will earn credit points towards further online and residential study you may wish to access as your new career progresses. The course delivery team are keen to understand potential delegates wishes and to work to accommodate them, so do please get in touch to discuss your particular circumstances.

Why haven't I heard about this before?

Recent research has confirmed that veterans find it very difficult to access information and suitable courses about land-based careers and education. It's simply a blind spot in the resettlement system. This course is new and is one of several that will plug the gap.