Farmers are being called to share their views to shape standards for apprenticeships which will develop the next generation of skilled workers.

Working with AHDB, leading agricultural employers have collaborated, creating proposals to improve training in an industry where 21 per cent of workers have no formal qualification.

The consultation seeks views on a new entry-level general farm worker standard to give students a taste of the industry, and a livestock unit manager for those with more experience who know they want to specialise.

Skills development has been recognised as a key factor to bridge the UK agricultural productivity gap.

Chair of the Agriculture Employer Trailblazer Group, Richard Longthorp said: "Agriculture depends on skilled workers to increase its productivity and apprenticeships provide a perfect route to train while working. As an employer this consultation is your opportunity to steer the future and tell us what you think about the draft standards created with your farming business in mind.”

Launched last year, new crop technician and stockperson trailblazer standards now have almost 250 apprenticeships underway.

In 2017/18 there were 814,800 people participating in an apprenticeship in England. Only 7,000 of those were in the agriculture, horticulture and animal care sector, compared to the top table where 111,000 apprenticeships covered business, administration and law.

The consultation closes on 25 October.

READ MORE: New apprenticeship scheme aims to egg on next generation of poultry farmers