0800 028 0289
Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies in Agriculture and Horticulture - Level 1 September startApply Now »
Location: Broomfield Hall
Years: 1
Interview: Y
Course Summary
This course is a fascinating introduction to a career in the land-based industry, with special emphasis on agriculture or horticulture. It gives you the chance to gain skills in areas such as animal husbandry and estates maintenance. As well as learning about the land-based industry, you will develop your literacy and numeracy skills.
Entry requirements
You should have grades E-G (1-2) at GCSE and a sound interest in agriculture and horticulture.
You will have an interview and initial assessment. Parents and carers are welcome to attend the interview, but not the initial assessment.
If you are a mature learner, we may be able to take into account your previous experience in your chosen subject.
Course Content
The course will cover:
- Use safe and effective working practices in land-based industries
- Develop performance in land-based industries
- Use transport and assist with maintenance of tools and equipment
- Assist with the care of animals
- Assist with the movement, handling and accommodation of animals
- Carry out tractor operations
- Introduction to crop systems
You will also work towards Functional Skills in Literacy, Numeracy and IT (if you do not have these at GCSE grade C/4 or above).
You will also have the opportunity to complete a tractor driving NPTC test. The test fee only will be payable, with all the training being included in the course.
How will I be assessed?
Assessments are carried out using a series of practical tasks and questions. There will also be some written assignment work and tests. You will be required to complete a portfolio of evidence.
Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?
You will be required to supply your own:
- Steel toe-capped boots or wellingtons
- Derby College Group overalls (these will be available to purchase at enrolment)
- Derby College Group uniform
- Outdoor clothing
- Writing materials
What can I do after this course?
If you do well in your studies, it may be possible to progress to a Level 2 Intermediate Diploma in Agriculture or Horticulture. However, you must have a minimum of a Merit grade to progress.
Derby College Group offers a range of one-day, weekend and evening courses relating to Agriculture and Horticulture, as well as a wide range of other land-based topics - please see the Derby College Group Part-time Prospectus for a full list and details.
Did you find the course information on this page useful?
Archie Wensley
Work placement leads to Swingate Farm apprenticeship for Archie
All Derby College agricultural apprentice Archie Wensley has ever wanted to do is be a farmer.
The 16-year-old from Kimberly in Nottinghamshire, loves tractors and working outdoors so, as soon as he left school, he joined Broomfield Hall’s level 2 agriculture course.
Through college Archie got a work placement with local farm and equestrian centre, Swingate Farm and, after seeing his potential, owner Matt Blant took him on as an apprentice.
Archie said: “I like it. I get to do a bit of everything and every day is different. There’s a lot of variety and I don’t mind being out in all weathers. Swingate is an equestrian centre as well as a 130-acre farm growing re-seeded grass to produce good quality hay. I get to drive the tractor and I also help with hay deliveries. One of the best parts of the job is working with the animals. There are a few cows and sheep and I’ve been helping with fencing the sheep pen.”
Matt, who has provided work experience to Broomfield agricultural students for more than a decade, is pleased with Archie’s progress.
He added: “He’s a good lad – always keen and willing to learn. Enthusiasm is a good place to start. I offered Archie an apprenticeship as I can he’s got potential.
“Farming’s getting more and more technical so there’s a lot to learn. The tractors we use now are more like rolling computers.”
Archie, whose great grandparents were farmers, hopes to remain with Matt when his apprenticeship finishes or work at another farm near his
home.
He added: “I’m pleased to have moved on to an agricultural apprenticeship at Swingate Farm. My tutors at Broomfield have been great and I like everything about my agricultural course at Derby College. It’s all good. Everyone works well together and we help each other out on jobs like baling straw.”
I like it. I get to do a bit of everything and every day is different. There’s a lot of variety and I don’t mind being out in all weathers. Swingate is an equestrian centre as well as a 130-acre farm growing re-seeded grass to produce good quality hay. I get to drive the tractor and I also help with hay deliveries. One of the best parts of the job is working with the animals. There are a few cows and sheep and I’ve been helping with fencing the sheep pen
