ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN AGRICULTURE

This course is designed for school leavers who would like to enter the world of agriculture in a supervisory or craftsman role, or to move on to further study at university. It covers all the main aspects of modern farming, including business management, machinery, livestock and crop production and it offers an opportunity to gain real-world experience through work experience.

• Four GCSEs at a grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths.

OR

• A Level 2 Diploma in Agriculture at a Merit grade or above, including English and Maths GCSEs at grade 4 and above.

You will need to be highly motivated and demonstrate a keen interest in agriculture. 

You will have an interview and parents and carers are welcome to attend the interview.

If you are a mature learner, we may be able to consider your previous experience in your chosen subject.

To progress to Year 2 of this course, you will be required to obtain a Merit grade or above during your first year.

The course will cover:

• Tutorial
• Business management
• Industrial and work experience – 150 hours total per year of study
• Estate skills
• Machinery operation and maintenance
• Animal science
• Plant and soil science
• Principles of machinery
• Spreaders and sprayers
• Undertaking farm habitat management
• Forage and agriculture crop production
• Investigative project
• Managing agricultural environments
• Livestock breeding and nutrition

This course will be delivered on-site at Broomfield Hall and is a mixed classroom and practical, hands-on programme.

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
• Gloves
• Writing materials

Please note that course fees will apply for students aged 19+.

You will be assessed continually throughout the course using a combination of written tests, project and assignment work, and demonstration of your competence in a range of practical skills. There will be a written exam and an online test at the end of the course.

Successful completion of this course may lead to:

• Year 2 of the Level 3 programme, based on achievement of a Merit grade in Year 1
• An apprenticeship in Agriculture
• Full-time employment in Agriculture

Derby College Group offers a range of one-day, weekend and evening courses relating to Agriculture, as well as a wide range of other land-based topics. Please see the Derby College Group Part-time Prospectus or the Derby College Group website for a full list and details.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk