Livestock Unit Technician Pre-Apprenticeship Course

This programme is aimed at students who are looking at progressing to an apprenticeship programme and would like to gain knowledge and practical skills in preparation for the workplace. The course is delivered over 12 weeks and covers a wide variety of topics within the agricultural industry. 

The programme will include one day per week attending a classroom/practical workshop at Derby College Farm, and at least two days per week out on work placement gaining experience in the industry. To support their main programme of study, students will also develop employability skills.

• Some experience volunteering with animals
• A good work ethic
• A commitment to a career in agriculture
• Three GCSEs at grade C/4 or above
• An interest in learning about livestock and how to manage them, plus the business side of farm life

You will undertake mandatory work experience days within your chosen work placements. 

Maths, English and employability skills will be embedded throughout the course. 

The basics of the Livestock Unit Technician course that you will cover are: 

• Management skills
• Feeding and nutrition
• Health, welfare and lifecycles
• Supply chains and stakeholders

The course is delivered over 12 weeks. You will attend one day per week on site at Broomfield Hall undertaking both theory and practical sessions. There is also a minimum of two days per week spent at your chosen work placement. This can involve more than one different work placement where you will learn and develop new skills. 

We require steel toe-cap boots, long-sleeved tops and trousers to be worn during practical sessions as well as weather-appropriate clothing. You may borrow overalls from the College during this period. You also need stationery including folders, paper, pens, and a memory stick for any work done on a computer. 

In-class assessments will be ongoing throughout the course as various tasks are covered. Work experience will be evidenced through completing diary sheets and employer witness statements.  No final exam is necessary. 

You could progress to the Level 3 Livestock Unit Technician Apprenticeship. 

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