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Agriculture is a vital part of Cumbria's economy and community. Be part of its future with us.

Agriculture and other land-based work is a vital part of Cumbria’s economy and culture. We are excited to offer these new programmes, delivered by experienced staff, for those wanting to develop the skills needed to make a career working in the sector.

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Cumbria has a diverse land-based sector and our programmes will teach you modern techniques for productivity and business methods that will allow you to embrace the opportunities that will arise in the years to come. With our Cumbrian based offer and staff expertise, we will tailor our programmes to suit the needs of the local employers whilst ensuring that you have the knowledge and skills to succeed anywhere. With Cumbrian agriculture alone accounting for nearly 5% of all English farms over 508,000 hectares and full time 12,000 jobs there is plenty of work to do.

We will use our network of local employers to give you a diverse, relevant set of experiences. This won’t be tied to one place or type of location or our facilities, so we can ensure you receive the training you need to be ready for what faces you after you leave college. This will include both taught practical sessions and work placements. You will undertake a work experience package that will allow you to put into practice and develop the skills you learn at college. This will be tailored to develop the skills and knowledge you need for your future in agriculture.

View our courses

Land-Based Studies
Full-time 1 1st Sep 2024 1 Year

Level 1 Land-Based Studies is an introduction to all the skills involved in working on the land. It will help you understand what farm, forestry, land management and how to do practical jobs on them. You will develop a wide range of practical skills and get the chance to practice them in lots of different places. This course is based in Kendal.

Agriculture, Land Management & Production T-Level
Full-time 3 1st Sep 2024 2 Years

This course combines academic knowledge with meaningful work placements within the agriculture sector. During the 2-year programme, students will learn the core knowledge and skills needed for entry to various agriculture, land management and production occupations.

Safe Application of Pesticides
Part-time 2 9th Jan 2024 2 days

If your job involves applying pesticides in a commercial role then you are legally required by the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations (2012) to take this qualification.

Animal Transport by Road (Long Journey Attendant)
Part-time 2 23rd Feb 2024 1 day

This is a mandatory qualification for those transporting animals by road on long journeys (over 8 hours duration). This qualification meets the requirements for a Certificate of Competence outlined in the Council Regulation (EC) No1/2005 on the Protection of Animals During Transport and the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 2006.

Animal Transport by Road (Short Journey Driver)
Part-time 2 1st Dec 2023 1 day

If you are involved in the transportation of animals by road on short journeys (over 65km and up to 8 hours duration) this qualification will ensure you meet the requirement for a Certificate of Competence outlined in the Council Regulation (EC) No1/2005 on the Protection of Animals During Transport and the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 2006.

Safe & Responsible Use of Veterinary Medicines
Part-time 2 23rd Feb 2024 1 day

The level 2 CoC in the Safe and Responsible Use of Veterinary Medicines aims to provide candidates with the skills and knowledge to use veterinary medicines safely, responsibly and in accordance with current legislation.

Forklift Truck Operations
Part-time 2 30th May 2024 1 day

This qualification will appeal to those who use a forklift as part of their work in agriculture, horticulture or distribution and warehousing. It has been developed to cover the "basic training" requirements of the Approved Code of Practice for Rider Operated Forklift Trucks. This does not replace any legal requirement for a driving licence.

Safe Use of All-Terrain Vehicles
Part-time 2 12th Dec 2023 1 day

This qualification will appeal to those who use an Sit In and Sit-astride ATV. You may be working in agriculture, grounds maintenance, outdoor events or use the ATV for recreational use. The minimum age limit for candidates taking this qualification is 16 years. This does not replace any legal requirement for a driving licence.