Certificate in Agriculture (Level 5) - (ID: #4)

Course Summary

The course consists of a combination of formal course work and a period of practical learning. The formal course work is split 50:50 (approx) between practical/ skills training and classroom (theoretical) sessions. The course consists of a range of mandatory and elective modules. Students choose a cluster of elective modules in one of the following specialisms: dairy production, drystock production, machinery and crop production.

This course, accredited by QQI, is the introductory course for young people who wish to make their career as farmers. The course is suitable for people seeking employment on farms.
Graduates are eligible to:

• Progress to a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture programme
• Transfer to Year 2 of the Higher Certificate in Agriculture or a BSc in Agriculture at an Institute of Technology
• Transfer to linked courses at Institutes of Technology through the Higher Education Links Scheme

Entry Requirements

Applicants for this full-time programme must be 17 years old or over on 1 January following entry to the course. This course will be of most benefit to anyone who has completed the senior cycle at second level (Leaving Certificate or equivalent).

What will I study?

Grass production – This module aims to establish insight into the knowledge, skills and understanding of grass as a crop, grass growth, grass measurement and management, grass conversation, grass skills, fencing and maintenance of the farm water supply.

Dairy Husbandry- This module focuses on equipping the learner with the knowledge and practical skills involved in dairy herd management. The modules examines the dairy industry from both Irish and Global perspectives, cows health and management, milk production, milk quality, housing design and performing a range of skills associated with dairy production in a safe manner.

Beef Husbandry- This module is intended to give the student an introduction to the beef sector. The topics covered include beef husbandry skills, animal health and welfare, breeding and cattle housing. Beef husbandry skills include Estimating Conformation and Weights, Valuing Animals and identifying Breeds and Crosses.

All Terrain Vehicles- the aim of this module is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to drive and handle an all terrain vehicle in a safe manner in compliance with relevant legislation.

Farm Business and Technology- the aim of this module is to provide the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to effectively use the latest technology available to farmers, recognise and communicate key drivers of farm business profit across all farming enterprises.

Farm Safety and Farm Assurance- This module aims to provide the learner with an insight into the key elements involved in safe farming and food production. This modules covers causes of accidents, assessment of risk, safe methods of work, farmer health and farm building and equipment design considerations.

Soils and the Environment- this module is intended to give the student a broad introduction to soils and the environments. Areas covered include soils classification, properties, composition and soil management, nutrient management, soil micro-organisms, environment legislation.

Safe Use of Pesticide Products- this module aims to provide the learner with the necessary knowledge, skill and competence in the safe use of pesticides in accordance with requirements of the current EU legislation and directives

Principles of Agriculture- this module will equip the learner with a broad introduction to Agriculture industry. It will provide an overview of the Dairy, Beef, Sheep and Tillage sector, plant physiology and animal behaviour and safe handling

Work Practice  –  On-Farm Practical Learning Period

Students on the Level 5 full-time programme spend two practical learning periods in each semester on approved training farms which has the enterprise of their specialism. Students will have their first 4 week work placement over the months of October & November and their second during the following spring.

Online Applications are made to Teagasc

Please ensure you have the following items of documentation available to you for uploading during the application process:

1. A copy of your birth certificate

2. Evidence/Proof of your PPS (Personal Public Service) e.g. copy of Public Services Card (front and back as your PPS number is on the back), copy of Drugs Payment Scheme Card etc.

3. A copy of your driver's licence (front & back) if applicable

4. Medical Card (if applicable)

5. Signed Consent Form for those under 18 years of age. 
   Your parent/guardian must complete the Teagasc Consent Form 2021 and this must then be uploaded as part of your application).  You can download the documents HERE

To apply:

1. Please select the course that you wish to apply
2. Please identify if you do/don't hold a Personal Public Service number (PPS)
3. Select Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick
4. Register (Create Account) if it is your first time, otherwise sign in
5. Complete application details as required
6. Click Submit to complete and submit your application form

APPLY NOW (applicants will be re-directed to the Teagasc website)

View our 2020 Virtual Open Day Here

Qualification:

On successful completion students are awarded:

• QQI Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture.
• This is the first year in a two year programme to becoming a young trained farmer

Progression

• Students with this Level 5 award may progress to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture
• Progression is also available through the Higher Education Links Scheme. Please contact the relevant higher education institute for further information.

Maintenance Grant: Apply to Teagasc for a Teagasc Maintenance Grant

Online Applications for September 2021 are now open

APPLY NOW (applicants will be re-directed to the Teagasc website)