Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming - Green Cert Online Learning

Course Overview

Our comprehensive distance/online learning program integrates the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and the Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of farming and agriculture, ensuring that our graduates obtain a credential that meets all "Green Cert" requirements.

As you embark on your educational journey with us, you'll benefit from a flexible learning environment that allows you to study at your own pace, wherever you are. Our online platform offers convenient access to course materials, lectures, and interactive resources, allowing you to balance your studies with your personal and professional commitments.

Weather you aspire to manage your own farm, work in agricultural consultancy, or pursue further studies, our program equips you with the credentials and skills needed to thrive in today's competitive job market.

Join us at Gurteen College and take the first step towards a rewarding career in agriculture. Enrol today and unlock your potential in this vital and dynamic industry.

Course Structure

The (Distance/Online) Level 6 Specific Purpose in Farming course at Gurteen College comprises two stages, each culminating in separate awards: Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming. The Specific Purpose Award (Green Cert) is only conferred upon successful completion of both Level 5 and Level 6 stages.

Students will undergo rigorous assessment covering both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Additionally, students are required to maintain a diary documenting activities on their own farms. 

Course Subjects: Stage 1 - Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture

• Principles of Agriculture: This subject covers the fundamental principles and practices of agriculture, including crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming methods.

• Soils and the Environment: Students learn about soil composition, fertility, and management practices, as well as their impact on environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

• Grass Production: This subject focusses on the cultivation, management, and utilisation of grasslands for livestock grazing and forage production, essential for sustainable livestock farming.

• Dairy Husbandry: Students gain insights into the care, management, and breeding of dairy cattle, as well as milk production and quality control procedures.

• Beef Husbandry: Beef husbandry explores the management practices involved in raising beef cattle, including breeding, nutrition, health management, and market considerations.

• Farm Business and Technology: This subject delves into the business aspects of farming, covering topics such as financial management, budgeting, marketing strategies, and the integration of technology for improved farm efficiency.

• Farm Safety and Assurance: Students learn about safety protocols, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance to ensure a safe working environment on the farm.

• Farm Structures: Farm structures encompass the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure essential for efficient farm operations, including housing for livestock and storage facilities.

• Safe Use of Pesticides: This subject educates students on the safe handling, application, and environmental considerations associated with pesticide use in agriculture.

• Communications: Effective communication skills are essential in farming operations, including interpersonal communication, written communication, and the use of technology for farm-related communications.

• Work Practice Diary: The work practice diary provides students with the opportunity to document and reflect on their practical experiences and learning outcomes throughout the course.

Course Subjects: Stage 2 - Level 6 Specific Purpose Award in Farming

• Grassland Management: Advanced study of grassland management techniques, including pasture improvement, rotational grazing, and optimising grass productivity for livestock nutrition.

• Farm Management and Business Planning: Building upon Level 5, this subject explores advanced farm management strategies, including business planning, financial analysis, and risk management.

• Applied Breeding: Students learn about principles and techniques of animal breeding, including genetic selection, reproductive technologies, and breeding programs to improve livestock performance and quality.

• Environmental and Sustainable Farming: This subject addresses environmental challenges in agriculture and explores sustainable farming practices to minimise environmental impact and promote biodiversity.

• Farm Performance Measurement: Students learn how to measure and evaluate farm performance indicators, such as productivity, efficiency, and profitability, to make informed management decisions.

• Work Practice Diary: Continuation of the work practice diary from Level 5, allowing students to document their practical experiences and learning outcomes in the Level 6 stage.

Awards

Students will earn both a Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture and a Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farming, accredited by QQI. The Specific Purpose Award (Green Cert) is only conferred upon successful completion of both Level 5 and Level 6 stages.

Duration & Schedule

Our program offers the flexibility of a self-paced learning environment, enabling you to study according to your own schedule and location.

The course is designed to be completed in approximately 18 months, provided that projects and assessments are submitted on time and successfully completed. The Level 5 portion of the course is delivered first and must be successfully completed before students can progress to the Level 6 award.

Distance Education, also referred to as online learning, courses at Gurteen College typically require one full day per month for practical classes and assessments held at the college. During these on-site sessions, students participate in practical activities and assessments, while theory, projects, and written exams are completed remotely.

Attendance on scheduled days is mandatory for the full duration, typically from 9 am to 5 pm or earlier if possible. The course comprises approximately 15 contact days in total, including repeats.

Eligibility

Prospective students must hold a non-agricultural major award at Level 6 or higher to be eligible for this course. There is no minimum age requirement, welcoming individuals of all ages to apply. Students are evaluated based on practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

Next Start Date

The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2024.

Application Details

Applications, when open, can be completed online through our website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card clearly displaying your PPSN)

• Proof of Name and Date of Birth (ideally a Birth Certificate or Passport)

• Driving Licence (front and back) if applicable

• Medical Card (front and back) if applicable

We recommend saving photos of the required documents to your device (laptop or PC) for easy uploading during the application process.

Tuition Fees

The course fee is €3100.

Embark on a transformative educational journey that equips you for a rewarding career in agriculture. For further details and to request an application pack, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!