“The opportunities are invaluable, endless, and I couldn’t have asked for a better first graduate job.”
Where do I even start?! I joined the NFU’s public affairs and communications graduate scheme in January 2021, with my first placement in the campaigns team. Despite joining in the midst of a and working remotely, I’ve had the most incredible few months. The opportunities are invaluable, endless, and I couldn’t have asked for a better first graduate job.
Within the campaigns team, I’ve been co‑leading on our access and countryside code campaign, encouraging people to #RespectProjectEnjoy our wonderful countryside. What I love about this campaign is that it’s so broad, which means I get to work on so many different tasks with people from across the organisation.
My standout moments have been helping to draft a script for a dog walking video featuring Graeme Hall, or should I say the Dogfather, from Channel 5’s Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. It was really rewarding to see the video so well received by the public! I’ve also enjoyed working on our Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme (SYFAP) which has allowed me to meet so many brilliant young farmers who I would never have crossed paths with if it wasn’t for the graduate scheme.
As a graduate trainee, you’ll be an integral member of the social media team from early on. I’ve had the chance to create content for all our social platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. The responsibility you’re given to lead on these channels shows how much the NFU values their graduates. Alongside social media, you’ll also gain experience in web publishing and digital campaigning tools, so there’s always something to get involved with.
This graduate scheme is a unique opportunity to help plan and deliver high‑profile events, which is always really exciting. I’m looking forward to getting out on farm to assist with filming for upcoming projects, Back British Farming Day in Westminster and .
At the heart of the NFU is its people who are not only immensely talented but are extremely supportive, encouraging and genuinely want to see you succeed. You don’t feel like ‘just the grad’ here, but rather a valued member of the team from day one. I was slightly nervous to join as I’m not from a farming or even rural background, but I learn something new everyday from people who are more than happy to answer my countless questions. You’ll be rattling off food and farming facts in no time!