Apprentice Agriculture Level 2

Start Date: August 2010

End Date: July 2013

Venue: Workplace Based

Tutor: Nigel Barratt

Who is this course for? The course offers a broad based introduction to those with an interest in Agriculture and who wish to gain a good basic grounding in the local industry before progressing to higher level study.

Previous knowledge required: The course is available to anyone with an interest in Agriculture dependent on a successful interview

What will I study? The course covers a range of Open College Network modules in Livestock Husbandry, Tractor Operation, Estate Maintenance, Machinery Maintenance and Repair, Grassland and Crop Management plus additional units in Information Technology and Health and Safety. Evidence will be gathered towards the NPTC City and Guilds Work Based Diploma in Agriculture at level 2.

What else will I do? All students will receive tuition in Key Skills (Application of Number, Communications and Information Technology). These will be largely integrated into your main course. Students will also complete a First Aid Certificate and an Employment Skills qualification. Students will be expected to spend up to three days each week and holidays at a suitable work placement. Students will be given the opportunity to complete a range of National Proficiency Test Competency Certificates including: Sheep Dips, Veterinary medicines, ATV bikes, Pesticides, Telescopic Handlers and Chainsaws.

How will I be assessed? Learners will be assessed throughout the course by a series of practical and written assessments and assignments. Evidence will also be gathered during your work placement to support the college based practical assessment.

What will I achieve? OCN Level 2 units in General Agriculture OCN Units in Farm Mechanisation The City and Guilds Level 2 Work based Diploma in Agriculture A range of NPTC Certificates of Competence as above

What can I do afterwards? You can proceed to Level 3 studies in Agriculture with the City and Guilds level 3 Diploma in Agriculture which will allow you to access Higher Education.

Materials required: You will need appropriate working clothes and footwear to include overalls, waterproofs, steel toecap boots and wellingtons.

Additional information about this course: It is possible that this route can be combined with the Level 2 studies in Agricultural Mechanics to give 4 days attendance at college over a 2 year period. In this way the learner would have a broad based introduction to both Agriculture and Agricultural Mechanics over a 2 year period.