• Course Level:Level 2

    Course Duration:15 - 18 Months

    Programme Aims

    To develop the practical expertise and background knowledge required to establish a career in agriculture.

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    Entry Requirements

    It is essential that your Initial Assessment results show that you are working towards Level 1. You should also have the following:

    •   GCSEs would be an advantage
    •   A good reference
    •   A suitable work placement (we can help to find you one)
    •   Relevant work experience and knowledge of your chosen industry
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    Course Structure

    This Apprenticeship is based around one of three work-based Level 2 Diploma courses which cover different areas of agriculture, allowing you to specialise in the area most attractive to you. All three courses cover practical tasks at work, supported by a range of block release programmes offered during the autumn and spring terms at college.  These blocks are usually of 3-5 days duration. In addition to the Diploma, legislative tests and functional skills are completed during the course to achieve the Apprenticeship qualification. You will be supported by regular visits from an assessor, who will come to your workplace to support you and measure your progress.

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    What you will study

    The three areas of specialisation are:

     

    Livestock Production

    Dairy, beef, sheep, pigs, goats or poultry may be used as evidence areas within this Diploma. You will be required to maintain the healthy performance of stock; operate tractors; care for livestock inside and out; care for livestock from conception to weaning; assist with livestock routines and stock tasks.

     

    Crop Production

    You will be required to learn about general health and safety; operate tractors; operate and maintain machinery; prepare for planting; maintain healthy growth of crops, and harvest and store crops.

     

    Mixed Farming

    A combination of the above two pathways, including: tractor operation, maintaining the healthy performance of stock, maintaining healthy growth of crops, harvesting and storing crops, caring for livestock indoors and out, and care of livestock from conception to weaning.

     

    Additional Qualifications:

    The following functional skills are studies alongside all Diplomas:


    •  Communication (Level 1)

    •  Application of Number (Level 1)

    I
    In addition, Emergency First Aid plus one other legislative test relevant to the industry will be completed.

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    Assessment

    Assessments are carried out in the workplace on a regular basis through your portfolio of evidence and during your block weeks at college.

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    Progression

    Successful apprentices may progress to an Advanced Apprenticeship or onto a full-time programme at Bicton College. Career opportunities includes practical farm work in a variety of positions.

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