If you've been wondering how the next generation of rural surveyors will find their way into the profession, I have some genuinely exciting news to share.
Plumpton College has been offering a RICS-accredited Rural Surveying course since last September — and it’s opening up a new, more accessible pathway into careers in rural estates and land management.
What makes this particularly interesting is the setting.
Located in the South Downs, just outside Brighton, Plumpton offers something quite unique. Students are immersed in hands-on, practical learning throughout the week — working across real farms and rural landscapes — while still having easy access to the energy and opportunities of city life at the weekend.
That balance between practical rural education and vibrant student life is something you don’t often see.
A College with a Difference
What strikes me most about Plumpton College is its location. Nestled in the South Downs near Brighton, it offers something quite unique for students pursuing the rural surveying pathway.
Think about it: students get the best of both worlds. During the week, they’re immersed in practical, hands-on learning across working farms and rural landscapes. Come the weekend, they have the vibrant city of Brighton right on the doorstep. For young people considering their options, this balance between rural education and city life makes Plumpton stand out from more traditional agricultural colleges.
Why the RICS Accreditation Matters
The introduction of a RICS accredited programme at Plumpton is significant for several reasons:
- Clear pathway into the profession – Students graduate with a qualification that’s recognised and respected across the industry
- Practical focus – The college’s working environment means graduates arrive with genuine hands-on experience
- Growing the talent pool – More accessible routes into rural surveying help address skills gaps in the sector
For those of us who care about the future of rural practice, this course helps wave the flag for how people can actually get into the industry. It’s not always obvious to school leavers that a career in rural surveying even exists, let alone how to pursue one.
A Call to Rural Practices: Consider Offering Placements
Here’s where I’d like to make a direct appeal to rural estates, land agents, and surveying practices across the South East and beyond.
The students coming through Plumpton are eager, committed, and hungry for real-world experience. What would make an enormous difference to their development is the opportunity to complete placement work with established businesses in the sector.
For you, offering a placement isn’t just about goodwill. It’s a chance to:
- Get a first look at upcoming talent before they enter the job market
- Shape how the next generation understands your area of practice
- Build relationships with potential future employees
- Give back to the profession in a meaningful way
Even a short placement can have a lasting impact on a student’s career trajectory and confidence.
Let's Support the Next Generation Together
- Diversify your expertise. The most sought-after candidates I work with have depth in traditional rural skills combined with knowledge of renewable energy, environmental schemes or utilities work. If you can position yourself at the intersection of these areas, your career options expand considerably.
- Stay current with legislation. The pace of policy change means continuing professional development matters more than ever. Employers tell me they value candidates who demonstrate awareness of how policy affects their clients.
- Consider your geography. Some regions are experiencing stronger demand than others. If you're open to relocation, you may find opportunities that wouldn't otherwise be available.
- Think about firm size and culture. I speak with candidates who thrive in large national practices and others who prefer the autonomy of smaller regional firms. Understanding what environment suits you helps ensure your next move is the right one.
How We Can Help You Navigate What Comes Next
Let's Talk
Get in touch with me directly – whether you have a formal placement scheme in place or you’re open to exploring what might work for your team. Together, we can help build a stronger pipeline of rural surveying talent for the years ahead.