Course Overview
Welcome to our Level 6 Specific Purpose in Farming (Part-Time) course, where we equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic world of agriculture.
Our comprehensive program integrates the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and the Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming, ensuring that our graduates obtain a credential that meets all "Green Cert" requirements.
Designed to accommodate busy schedules, our Part-Time or Night course is conducted at the College, providing flexible learning options for individuals aged 23 and over. Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking to expand your expertise or someone passionate about starting a career in farming, this course caters to diverse backgrounds and aspirations.
Throughout the curriculum, you'll delve into key aspects of modern farming practices, including sustainable agriculture, grass production, dairy and beef husbandry. Our experienced instructors, coupled with hands-on practical sessions, offer invaluable insights into industry best practices and emerging trends.
By enroling in our part-time farming course, you'll gain proficiency in essential agricultural techniques, learning to leverage cutting-edge technologies and sustainable methods to optimise farm productivity and environmental stewardship.
Embark on a rewarding journey with our Level 6 Specific Purpose in Farming course and unlock boundless opportunities in Ireland's vibrant agricultural landscape. Join us as we cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators. Enrol today and harvest the skills to thrive in the ever-evolving world of farming.
Course Structure
The Part-Time Level 6 Specific Purpose in Farming course at Gurteen College comprises two stages, each culminating in separate awards: Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming. The Specific Purpose Award (Green Cert) is only conferred upon successful completion of both Level 5 and Level 6 stages.
Students will undergo rigorous assessment covering both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Additionally, students are required to maintain a diary documenting activities on their own farms.
Course Subjects: Stage 1 - Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture
-
Principles of Agriculture: This subject covers the fundamental principles and practices of agriculture, including crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming methods.
-
Soils and the Environment: Students learn about soil composition, fertility, and management practices, as well as their impact on environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.
-
Grass Production: This subject focus on the cultivation, management, and utilisation of grasslands for livestock grazing and forage production, essential for sustainable livestock farming.
-
Dairy Husbandry: Students gain insights into the care, management, and breeding of dairy cattle, as well as milk production and quality control procedures.
-
Beef Husbandry: Beef husbandry explores the management practices involved in raising beef cattle, including breeding, nutrition, health management, and market considerations.
-
Farm Business and Technology: This subject delves into the business aspects of farming, covering topics such as financial management, budgeting, marketing strategies, and the integration of technology for improved farm efficiency.
-
Farm Safety and Assurance: Students learn about safety protocols, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance to ensure a safe working environment on the farm.
-
Farm Structures: Farm structures encompass the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure essential for efficient farm operations, including housing for livestock and storage facilities.
-
Safe Use of Pesticides: This subject educates students on the safe handling, application, and environmental considerations associated with pesticide use in agriculture.
-
Communications: Effective communication skills are essential in farming operations, including interpersonal communication, written communication, and the use of technology for farm-related communications.
-
Work Practice Diary: The work practice diary provides students with the opportunity to document and reflect on their practical experiences and learning outcomes throughout the course.
Course Subjects: Stage 2 - Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming
-
Grassland Management: Advanced study of grassland management techniques, including pasture improvement, rotational grazing, and optimising grass productivity for livestock nutrition.
-
Farm Management and Business Planning: Building upon Level 5, this subject explores advanced farm management strategies, including business planning, financial analysis, and risk management.
-
Applied Breeding: Students learn about principles and techniques of animal breeding, including genetic selection, reproductive technologies, and breeding programs to improve livestock performance and quality.
-
Environmental and Sustainable Farming: This subject addresses environmental challenges in agriculture and explores sustainable farming practices to minimise environmental impact and promote biodiversity.
-
Farm Performance Measurement: Students learn how to measure and evaluate farm performance indicators, such as productivity, efficiency, and profitability, to make informed management decisions.
-
Work Practice Diary: Continuation of the work practice diary from Level 5, allowing students to document their practical experiences and learning outcomes in the Level 6 stage.
Awards
Students will earn both a Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and a Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farming, accredited by QQI. The Specific Purpose Award (Green Cert) is only conferred upon successful completion of both Level 5 and Level 6 stages.
Duration & Schedule
The course spans approximately 18 months, conveniently designed to accommodate busy schedules. Classes are held on two weekday evenings per week, typically on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 7-10 pm. The curriculum strikes a balance between practical and theoretical learning, dedicating one evening to hands-on training and the other to classroom instruction.
To enhance practical learning, students participate in a week-long intensive session at Gurteen College during the summertime. This immersive experience provides invaluable opportunities for hands-on application of learned concepts and techniques.
Consistent attendance on all scheduled days is expected from students. However, as the course progresses, there may be instances where certain sessions transition to online delivery, based on the discretion of our tutors.
Eligibility
Prospective students must be at least 23 years old, with no upper age limit imposed.
Next Start Date
The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2024.
Application Details
Applications, when open, can be completed online through our website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
-
Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card clearly displaying your PPSN)
-
Proof of Name and Date of Birth (ideally a Birth Certificate or Passport)
-
Diving Licence (front and back) if applicable
-
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
The course fee is €1810 for individuals without a major award at Level 6 and €2810 for those with a prior qualification at Level 6.
Embark on a transformative educational journey that equips you for a rewarding career in agriculture. For further details and to request an application pack, please send us a message via our contact form or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!