Agricultural Mechanisation and Grassland Management Course (Level 6 Advanced Certificate)
Course Overview
Discover the pathway to a thriving career in agriculture with our Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agricultural Mechanisation and Grassland Management course at Gurteen College. This course is tailored to empower students with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills required to excel in the flourishing industries of farm machinery and contracting.
This course has a specialised focus on grassland aspects, with students covering all aspects of grassland management and grazing plaform design, coupled with the traditional mechanisation elements.
Beyond the classroom, our program emphasises hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world agricultural settings. Through practical workshops, field trips, and industry placements, students develop the confidence and expertise to tackle the diverse challenges faced by modern farmers.
After successfully completing the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agricultural Mechanisation & Grassland Management, graduates not only become skilled professionals but also create pathways for further education and accreditation. This qualification, known as the prestigious "Green Cert," unlocks numerous career opportunities within the thriving agricultural sector, whether you aspire to manage your own farm, pursue a career in farm machinery, or work within the world of agricultural contracting.
Explore our Level 6 Advanced Certificate Course in Agricultural Mechanisation & Grassland Management today and take the first step towards a prosperous future in agriculture.
Course Structure
The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of subjects crucial for training students to an impeccable skill level. Through these modules, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in grassland management and agricultral mechanisation management.
During the program, students dedicate 20 weeks to coursework within the college setting. Additionally, they embark on a 16-week practical learning period hosted on approved training farms. For those seeking broader exposure, opportunities for international placements are available and can be facilitated in consultation with our dedicated college placement officer.
Course Subjects:
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Maintenance Fabrication: This subject covers mechanical maintenance of vehicles. Students will gain valuable knowledge, and skills in of modern vehicle maintenance systems; including, but not limited to being able to perform fault finding and completing numerous repair tasks.
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Grazing Platform Design: Students study the design and layout of grazing platforms for optimal pasture utilisation and herd management. They learn to assess land resources, plan fencing and water systems, and implement efficient grazing management strategies.
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Grassland Management: This subject covers the science and practice of managing pasture resources for dairy production. Students learn about soil fertility, grass species selection, rotational grazing systems, and methods for maximising forage yield and quality.
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Farm Management and Business Planning: Students gain insights into the principles of farm management, including budgeting, financial analysis, resource allocation, and strategic planning. They also learn how to develop comprehensive business plans that integrate production goals, financial targets, and risk management strategies to ensure the long-term viability and success of farming operations.
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Environmental and Sustainable Farming: Students learn about soil conservation, water management, biodiversity conservation, integrated pest management, and other sustainable farming techniques aimed at minimising environmental impact while maximising productivity and profitability.
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Sustainable Farming Development: Building upon the principles of sustainable agriculture, students explore innovative technologies, alternative energy sources, organic farming methods, and agroecological approaches to promote ecological balance, resilience, and long-term sustainability in farming systems.
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Maintenance of Farm Machinery: Students learn the importance of regular maintenance and servicing of farm machinery to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety. They gain practical skills in diagnosing mechanical issues, performing routine maintenance tasks, and conducting repairs to minimise downtime and maximise productivity on the farm.
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Farm Equipment Fabrication: This subject introduces students to the fundamentals of fabricating and modifying farm equipment and machinery to meet specific operational needs. Students learn welding techniques, metalworking skills, and fabrication processes to design and construct custom equipment solutions that enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety on the farm.
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Personal and Professional Development: This subject focusses on the personal and professional skills needed for success in the agricultural industry. Students develop communication skills, teamwork abilities, leadership qualities, and problem-solving techniques essential for effective collaboration, decision-making, and career advancement in the agricultural sector.
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Work Practice: During the practical learning period on an approved training host farm, students gain hands-on experience and industry exposure under the guidance of experienced professionals. They apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired in the classroom to real-world farming scenarios, gaining valuable insights and building professional networks within the agricultural community.
Awards
Upon successful completion, students are awarded a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agricultural Mechanisation and Grassland Management, qualifying them as Young Trained Farmers.
Graduates may explore further educational opportunities, including the possibility of transferring to Year 2 of a Higher Certificate in Agriculture or a BSc in Agriculture (Gurteen College & TUS degree courses):
Duration & Schedule
This full-time course runs from September to June. The program encompasses 36 weeks of intensive study at the College, including a 16-week placement period.
Eligibility
To enrol, applicants must have previously completed the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture or an equivalent course. This prerequisite ensures that students entering the program have a foundational understanding of agricultural concepts and practices.
Next Start Date
The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2026.
Application Details
Applications are accessible online via the Gurteen College website or directly through the Teagasc website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
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Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card displaying your PPSN)
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Proof of Name and Date of Birth (preferably a Birth Certificate or Passport)
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Driving Licence (front and back) if applicable
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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
Gurteen College offers on-site residential accommodation for students who prefer to stay on campus. Residential students are required to ensure they pay the correct amount for accommodation when the first instalment of fees is due.
The costs for Gurteen's courses are all-inclusive, covering meals, printing, workbooks, WiFi, utilities, access to the student kitchen, and use of on-site sporting facilities.
Fees for 26/27 are not yet confirmed- as soon as they are, that information can be found here.
Applicants to the course may apply for the Teagasc Student Maintenance Grant Scheme (Means Tested & Distance related) during the application process. For more info, visit the Teagasc website.
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 send us a message via our contact form or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!