Agriculture Certificate

This course is ideal if you want to build confidence and practical capability in mixed agriculture while learning the science behind farming decisions. You’ll study crops livestock and machinery and apply learning through real seasonal tasks such as fencing calving and shearing. The programme introduces business management and farm profitability so you understand how farms stay sustainable. It suits learners aiming to progress to a more technical course or enter the sector through employment or an apprenticeship.

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers • Three or more GCSEs at Grade 3 or 4 including English and/or Maths at Grade 4, or successful completion of a relevant Level 1 qualification and English and/or Maths at Grade 4 or equivalent. Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group • Successful completion of previous course and maths and/or English GCSE at grade 4 or above and the other at grade 3 or above. Electively Home Educated Applicants

This one year course covers general mixed agriculture including crops, livestock, tractors and machinery. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of plant, soil and animal science and how these influence the growth, yields and quality of our crops and livestock. You will examine how crops such as wheat, barley and grass grow, how to plant them, how to look after them and how to harvest and store them. You will learn about the health, welfare, nutrition and reproduction of farm livestock, the practical skills to ensure that animals are well looked after and produce high quality meat or milk. You will be introduced to the basics of business management and farm profitability. Knowledge and understanding will be developed alongside practical skills such as how to repair a stock fence, fix a water leak, build a wall, operate a tractor, reverse a trailer, use a loader and attach machinery.

You will be assessed by a range of methods including two online multiple choice exams, practical observations and written assignments during the duration of the programme.

Success at level 2 means that you will have a good grasp of the practical skills and knowledge required in agriculture and an introduction to the scientific principles behind crop and livestock production. You can use your skills to progress to a level 3 programme where you will take your studies to the next level and look deeper into the science, business management and technical side of agricultural production, start a work-based apprenticeship and earn while you learn or enter employment.