- Duration
2 years part time
- Attendance
- 1 day per week
- Location
- Plumpton College
Course Overview
This is a fantastic, varied and exciting introductory course, ideal for those with an interest in farming who would like to gain further experience in agriculture. You will learn practical skills and agricultural theory, working on our college farm as well as visiting other farms for a variety of farming methods.
You can look forward to a varied programme of modules including:
- Farm animal movement
- Farm animal health and welfare
- Introduction to farm animal husbandry
- Introduction to health & safety
- Tractor operations.
Entry Requirements
School Students
- Applicants must be 14 years of age or older by 31st August of the year of applying.
- A service level agreement must be agreed and signed between the college and participating school before learners can be enrolled.
- The school must be in agreement with the application and agree to pay the fees.
Electively Home Educated
- Students must have been out of education and home schooled for at least 6 months prior to enrolling.
- Applicants must be 14 years of age or older by 31st August of the year of applying.
What is it like to be a student on this course?
I am from a non-farming background, but have worked with horses for many years. I had the opportunity to work at a local farm during lambing season. I found it so interesting and exciting that I decided I wanted to learn more and broaden my knowledge of agriculture. I love how practical our lessons are. We are able to be involved in a wide variety of different activities ranging from driving tractors to herding sheep on the South Downs. Our tutors are very encouraging and always help us to achieve our full potential. We have small class sizes which enable us to have lots of fun and learn at the same time! For years 12 and 13 I aim to carry on at Plumpton College full time studying Level 3 Agriculture. At the moment I’m interested in going to University and sheep farming, but one of the amazing things about agriculture is how many different career options there are so my plans could change. One thing is for certain, and that is that coming to Plumpton College has made me 100% sure that I want a career in agriculture.
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.
Students aged 19-23 studying their Level 1, 2 or first Level 3 may be entitled to tuition fee waiver depending on criteria eligibility.
Students aged 24+ who are studying a second Level 3 course or aged 24+ who are studying their first Level 3 course will have to pay tuition fees, depending on the course.
Students on low income who can prove they earn less than £25,000 (from September 2024); are unemployed; or receive state benefits could be entitled to a tuition fee waiver.
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, which contribute to quality resources and equipment for their studies.
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 depending on the course studied.
Work Experience
Work experience enhances your studies and is an important part of your course. It ensures you leave 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.
