Drystock Management Course (Level 6 Advanced Certificate)
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Applications are now open for September 2024- click here to start your application!
Course Overview
Welcome to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate Course in Drystock Management at Gurteen College. Our comprehensive program is meticulously crafted to equip aspiring farmers with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of drystock farming, from animal husbandry and nutrition to pasture management and sustainable farming practices.
Designed to meet the evolving demands of modern agriculture, our course serves as a pivotal stepping stone for individuals aiming to embark on successful careers in drystock management. Whether you envision managing your own flock or herd on a thriving farm or aspire to become a valued employee in various agricultural settings, our program provides the essential groundwork for your journey.
At Gurteen College, we prioritise hands-on learning experiences, ensuring that our students develop practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world scenarios. Through immersive fieldwork, industry placements, and expert-led workshops, students gain invaluable insights into the day-to-day operations of a modern drystock farm.
Moreover, our program not only prepares graduates for immediate entry into the workforce but also lays a solid foundation for further education and specialisation in agricultural studies. Upon successful completion, students earn the prestigious "Green Cert" and emerge as Young Trained Farmers, ready to make meaningful contributions to the agricultural sector.
Explore our Level 6 Advanced Certificate Course in Drystock Management today and take the first step towards a prosperous future in agriculture.
Course Structure
The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of subjects crucial for effective drystock management. Through these modules, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in dairy farm operations.
During the program, students dedicate 20 weeks to coursework within the college setting. Additionally, they embark on a 16-week practical learning period hosted on approved training farms. For those seeking broader exposure, opportunities for international placements are available and can be facilitated in consultation with our dedicated college placement officer.
Course Subjects:
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Beef Husbandry Management: Students learn about breeding practices, health management, nutrition requirements, and general husbandry techniques essential for maintaining the health and productivity of beef cattle.
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Sheep Husbandry Management: This subject covers the principles and practices involved in managing a flock of sheep. Topics include breeding and reproduction, health and disease management, nutrition, housing requirements, and practical skills for handling and caring for sheep effectively.
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Farm Management and Business Planning: Students delve into the fundamentals of farm management, including financial planning, budgeting, record-keeping, and decision-making processes. They learn how to develop effective business plans, analyse market trends, and implement strategies for sustainable farm operations.
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Environmental and Sustainable Farming: Students learn about soil conservation, water management, biodiversity conservation, waste management, and the integration of sustainable practices into farm operations.
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Ruminant Nutrition: Ruminant nutrition focusses on the dietary requirements and feeding practices for ruminant animals such as cattle and sheep. Students study nutrient requirements, feed formulation, grazing management, and strategies for improving animal health and performance through balanced nutrition.
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Grassland Management: Students learn about pasture establishment, rotation grazing systems, weed and pest control, and techniques for improving soil fertility and pasture quality.
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Applied Livestock Breeding: Applied livestock breeding involves the principles and practices of selective breeding to improve desirable traits in livestock populations. Students learn about breeding methods, genetic selection, reproductive technologies, and the importance of genetic diversity in livestock production.
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Personal and Professional Development: This subject focusses on personal and professional skills essential for success in the agricultural industry. Topics include communication skills, teamwork, leadership, time management, and career development strategies.
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Work Practice: Work practice provides students with practical experience in a real-world farm setting. Through supervised work placements, students apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired throughout the course, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Awards
Upon successful completion, students are awarded a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Drystock Management, qualifying them as Young Trained Farmers.
Graduates may explore further educational opportunities, including the possibility of transferring to Year 2 of a Higher Certificate in Agriculture or a BSc in Agriculture (Gurteen College & TUS degree courses):
Duration & Schedule
This full-time course runs from September 2024 to June 2024. The program encompasses 20 weeks of intensive study at the College, followed by a 12-week placement period.
Eligibility
To enrol, applicants must have previously completed the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture or an equivalent course. This prerequisite ensures that students entering the program have a foundational understanding of agricultural concepts and practices.
Next Start Date
The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2024.
Application Details
Applications are accessible online via the Gurteen College website or directly through the Teagasc website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
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Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card displaying your PPSN)
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Proof of Name and Date of Birth (preferably a Birth Certificate or Passport)
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Driving Licence (front and back) if applicable
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Medical Card (front and back) if applicable
We recommend saving photos of the required documents to your device (laptop or PC) for easy uploading during the application process.
Tuition Fees
Gurteen College offers on-site residential accommodation for students who prefer to stay on campus. Residential students are required to ensure they pay the correct amount for accommodation when the first instalment of fees is due.
The costs for Gurteen's courses are all-inclusive, covering meals, printing, workbooks, WiFi, utilities, access to the student kitchen, and use of on-site sporting facilities.
The total cost for the Level 6 (full-time) advanced course for the 2024-25 academic year is €5550 for residential students and €2650 for non-residential students. Tuition fees are divided into two instalments, with payments due on specified dates:
Residential - Total Cost €5550
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€3500 due on or before 18th August 2024
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€2050 due on or before 1st December 2024
Non-Residential - Total Cost €2750
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€1400 due on or before 18th August 2024
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€1250 due on or before 1st December 2024
Applicants to the course may apply for the Teagasc Student Maintenance Grant Scheme (Means Tested & Distance related) during the application process. For more info, visit the Teagasc website.
Join us at Gurteen College and unlock the doors to a fulfilling career in Drystock Management. For further details and to request an application pack, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!