Course overview
The Level 1 Land-Based Studies course will take elements from animal care,
countryside and environment, land and horticulture programmes, offering students
an introduction into these study pathways for future Level 2 courses and on to a
wealth of career options within the rural land-based sector. A core component of
the new course programme is the provision of English and maths delivered by
Homewood School for students who have not yet achieved a grade 4 at GCSE.
Part of the Plumpton College Academy – delivered at Homewood School
& Sixth Form, Tenterden, Kent
Through their combined expertise and resources, Plumpton College and Homewood
School aim to broaden access to high-quality land-based vocational education –
offering practical pathways that are both relevant to the rural economy and
responsive to the aspirations of young people. The partnership addresses the
educational and socio-economic needs of rural Kent and East Sussex and is a
direct response to the acute shortage of accessible post-16 provision, catalysed
by the closure of local sixth forms and the limited transport links.
The Land Based studies qualification is a practical based qualification that
is specifically aimed at providing a solid foundation for progression into a
variety of level 2 qualifications, such as: Animal Care, Countryside Management,
Agriculture or Horticulture.
Modules
- Safe and effective working practices in the land-based industries
- Contribute to the maintenance of plants
- Assist with maintaining the health and wellbeing of animals
- Assist with the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation
Work experience
Industry placements enhance your studies and are an important part of your course. They ensure you develop the key skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to be successful in your chosen industry, resulting in you leaving college ready for the world of work. It is compulsory to undertake an element of work experience when studying a Level 1, 2, or 3 course. The number of hours you must complete will depend on your level of study.
Course Level:
- Level 1 – Minimum of 30 hours of industry placement
- Level 2 – Minimum of 75 hours of industry placement
- Level 3 – Minimum of 150 hours of industry placement (per year of your course)
- T Level – Minimum of 315 hours of industry placement
Entry requirements
3 GCSEs at Grade 2 and above to include English and Maths OR an Entry level qualification in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 2 or functional skills entry level 3
Progression routes
This course is designed as a Foundation and stepping stone onto an appropriate level 2 land-based course, this could include programmes in Animal Care, Horticulture, Agriculture and Countryside Management.
You will develop a range of knowledge, skills and behaviours that will support you in demonstrating your passion in these key areas. It will also help you gain vital experience that will make you a fantastic candidate for these level 2 courses or to future employers within these industries.
Bursaries
Financial support could be available to you depending on your household income, eligibility criteria, and level of study. A bursary, which is money given directly by the Government, could help fund bus travel, accommodation, course equipment, college meals, or educational trips.
Course Fees
Students aged 16-18 on 31st August in the year of starting the course do not pay tuition fees.
Adults aged 19+ may be entitled to a tuition fee waiver on certain courses (where the Government pays the tuition and assessment fee) if any of the following apply:
You are aged between 19 and 23 and:
- This is your first Full Level 2 or Full Level 3 qualification.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- You are unemployed or economically inactive and your gross annual income is below £26,800.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
You are aged 24+ and:
- You are studying a Level 1 or Level 2 course and are unemployed, economically inactive, or earning below £26,800 gross annually.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
All students pay a standard facility fee of £150 to use communal, non-educational facilities.
Material fees apply to Floristry, Blacksmithing and Metalwork, Agricultural Engineering, and Motor Vehicle students.
Equipment & PPE
Students on a 14-16, Level 1, 2, 3, or Foundation Learning course may be required to purchase equipment such as a uniform, PPE, or kit before starting their course. Material fees are applicable depending on the course studied.
Start dates
Interested in this course? There are currently no start dates available, but please contact us to discuss your options and find out when you can apply.
Not ready to apply?
Register your interest