Introduction to Countryside Skills, Farming and Horticulture

Course code: EFCT100P

Subject area: Agriculture

Study level: School Leaver

Course level: 1

Course details

9:30am - 4:30pm

Monday to Friday

6th Sep 2021 - 1st Jul 2022

Common Leys Farm

Contact details

enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

01993 208148

Do you like being outdoors? Are you a hands on practical learner? This one-year full time course introduces students to a variety of practical tasks that would be encountered in the countryside, farming and horticultural industries. You will be working with a range of land-based tools and equipment. This course will give you an introduction to caring for the countryside, looking after farm animals and a variety of horticultural tasks; for example plant care and maintenance. You will also develop a range of wider skills which will support you to become ready for employment or progress onto an apprenticeship. You will be based at the Common Leys Farm Campus. This is the college's land-based practical site in the West Oxfordshire countryside with purpose-built teaching areas including; the livestock technology centre, heated and automated green house, polytunnels and rural skills workshops. The aim of this qualification is to give the learners the foundation skills and experience to allow them to make an informed choice as to which area of land-based studies they want to progress into.

Students will be working towards a study programme that will include their main vocational qualification, plenty of hands on practical work, functional skills in English and Maths or GCSE, tutorials, enrichment and work experience. These are essential skills for employment. Students will usually attend College 3-4 days a week from 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Course modules include: • Contribute to the maintenance of plants • Contribute to the propagation of plants • Introduction to Wildlife and conversation • Assist with the maintenance of structures and surfaces in the countryside • Introduction to production livestock and breeds • Safe and effective working practices in land-based industries • Preparing to work in the land-based industries
Following successful completion of this course, you may be able to progress onto the Level 2 Diploma in Countryside and the Environment, Agriculture or Forestry or a horticulture apprenticeship. In a level 2 qualification you can take more advanced modules such as; tractor driving, livestock production, pest control and game management depending on which subject you choose to progress onto.
GCSEs at grade 3 - grade 1, a successful interview and assessment day.
In addition to the main course fees there is a cost of approximately £150 for kit / clothing which may include you needing to buy outdoor weatherproof clothing and stout boots and £25 for a trips and visits. (Costs are given for guidance only).

Due to COVID-19 we are not currently planning any trips as part of your course. If we are able to organise trips during your course, the cost of these will be communicated to you at the time. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate. Bursaries may also available to cover the cost of some trips.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course cost, call 01235 216 298 for more information.

The 19+ full fee button displays the full fee that may apply, the rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 555 585 to discuss your options. Also see the Course Fees & Finance page by searching Fees and bursaries link at the top of the screen.

16 - 18 Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00


19+ Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00


19+ Reduced Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00

City and Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Land-Based Studies
Practical observation forms, leaflets, posters, two online multiple choice exams.
Landbased machinery skills, use of hedgecutters, mowers and stimmers, propagating and maintaining plants, livestock handling skills including; cattle, pigs and sheep.