Course Overview
With the agriculture sector modernising rapidly, there is an urgent need for well trained and qualified people to work in this dynamic and increasingly technical industry. This course is based at our specialist Lackham campus – offering modern farm facilities in an 800-acre estate – and enables you to gain experience of working on real commercial farms as a routine part of your learning, supported by practical and theoretical teaching. Whether your passion is livestock or crops, dairy or beef production, you will benefit from facilities and resources which give you real-world experience of your chosen area. The College farm’s enterprises include sheep, dairy, pigs, beef and arable cropping, and as an agriculture student you will be involved in them all. The course also benefits from the College’s strong industry links with a range of agricultural companies including Cogent, ForFarmers and Agri-Lloyd. Equivalent to A-Levels, the course will prepare you for direct employment in agriculture or further study, making it a strong step into your future.
What will I learn?
On this course you’ll learn how to use the latest agricultural equipment and machinery, including a fleet of new tractors. You’ll gain the relevant practical skills and hands-on experience of growing crops, working with livestock, driving tractors and using other agricultural machinery. Key modules include animal health and nutrition, and plant soil and science, and you’ll also cover aspects of business management and industry diversification, equipping you to fulfill your potential, whatever your ambitions.
Study, Assessment and Qualifications
You will be assessed through a combination of written, practical and industry-based assessments.
An industry placement is a fundamental part of the course and gives you the opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience for your future. You will be supported throughout your placement by our dedicated Work Placement Team.
The final accredited qualification is a City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture.
Entry Requirements
• 4 GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C) including English, maths and science (or equivalent).
• A positive and responsible attitude towards working within the agricultural industry.
• An interview, if required.
Additional Costs and Information
You will be required to supply your own protective clothing such as overalls and safety boots. This clothing must be worn during all practical sessions and is available to purchase from the online College shop.
You will be asked to contribute towards the cost of visits which are an integral part of this course. An optional study tour, if available, will also incur additional costs.
