At Luscombe Maye, we are proud to support the next generation of rural professionals. As part of the CAAV – Central Association of Agricultural Valuers Route to Rural campaign, we want to showcase a range of different routes into a career in the rural sector. There isn’t just one path to success, so let’s hear from some of our team about their own journeys.
Phoebe Parker, Graduate Rural Surveyor
We are delighted to support Phoebe, one of our Graduate Rural Surveyors, who has taken a more traditional academic route into the profession.
Phoebe completed a three-year BSc (Hons) in Rural Land Management at The Royal Agricultural University and is now working towards her APC and AAV exams in autumn 2026, with the aim of qualifying as a Rural Chartered Surveyor.
“I chose the university route because I wanted to fully immerse myself in the academic and practical foundations of the profession before stepping into the workplace. The degree offered a structured environment to explore the breadth of rural surveying, from estate management and valuation to planning and agricultural law. It provided the time and space to develop a strong knowledge base and prepare thoroughly for the challenges and responsibilities of a professional career in the rural sector.”
Phoebe’s journey shows how combining academic knowledge with practical experience creates a solid foundation for a professional career in rural surveying. At Luscombe Maye, we are proud to provide the support and mentoring to help graduates like Phoebe thrive as they take their first steps into the profession.
Harriet Rogers, Senior Farms & Land Sales Coordinator
Harriet, our Senior Farms & Land Sales Coordinator, demonstrates another route into rural surveying. After completing a non-RICS accredited undergraduate degree in Geography, Harriet joined our Rural Professionals department, gaining hands-on experience in farm, land, and smallholding sales.
“After working with Luscombe Maye for almost four years, I have chosen to further my career by studying part-time at Harper Adams through the apprenticeship route, with the end goal of becoming a Rural Chartered Surveyor. Combining on-the-job training with study will be hands-on, but I’m really looking forward to it.”
Harriet’s path highlights how apprenticeships and practical experience provide a valuable route to professional qualifications. At Luscombe Maye, we are proud to support her ambition and provide the environment to learn, grow, and take the next step in her career.
Olivia Bateman, Apprentice Rural Surveyor
Finally, Olivia, one of our Apprentice Rural Surveyors, shows yet another pathway into the sector. After completing a two-year Agricultural BTEC at Cannington College, Bridgwater, Olivia joined the BSc (Hons) Chartered Surveyor Apprenticeship at Harper Adams University, now in her second year.
“The apprenticeship route allows me to gain hands-on experience while studying, which has accelerated my learning and development. One of the biggest advantages is avoiding student debt, making it a financially sustainable option for entering the rural surveying sector.”
Olivia’s story demonstrates how apprenticeships can offer a direct, practical, and rewarding pathway into rural surveying. We are proud to provide the support and guidance she needs to develop professional skills from day one.
Are you looking for a Route to Rural?
At Luscombe Maye, we are committed to encouraging growth, learning, and development at every stage of a rural career. Phoebe, Harriet, and Olivia’s journeys show that there are many Routes to Rural, and we are delighted to support them as they build their futures in the profession.
If you are interested in exploring a Route to Rural or looking for work experience within one of our teams, please get in touch.
