Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Agriculture

This course is designed for school leavers who would like to enter the world of agriculture in a supervisory or craftsperson 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 offers an opportunity to gain real-world experience through work experience.The two-year study programme consists of completing a City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Agriculture (540) and achieving three NPTC tickets. You will be able to gain UCAS points to study an FdSc programme at university. University entry requirements differ depending on the provider and course offer. Please check all university entry requirements before applying.

Four GCSEs at a grade 4 (C) or above, including English and MathsORA 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, and should be ready to work outdoors and within an agriculture environment.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 ex

The course will cover:TutorialBusiness managementIndustrial and work experience – 150 hours total per year of studyEstate skillsMachinery operation and maintenanceAnimal sciencePlant and soil sciencePrinciples of machinerySpreaders and sprayersUndertaking farm habitat managementForage and agriculture crop productionInvestigative projectManaging agricultural environmentsLivestock 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 wellingtonsDerby College Group overalls (these will be available to purchase at enrolment)Derby College Group uniformOutdoor clothingGlovesWriting materialsHoodies are not permitted to be worn, and all jewellery and false nails must be removed.Please note that course fees will apply for students aged 19+.There may be bursaries that are available to you, to help you with paying for the cost of equipment.

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

Successful completion of this course may lead to:Year 2 of the Level 3 programme, based on achievement of a Merit grade in Year 1An apprenticeship in AgricultureFull-time employment in AgricultureDerby 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.