Friday, May 27, is the closing date if you are thinking of applying to a QQI accredited level 5 courses at Teagasc agricultural and horticultural colleges is fast approaching.
Application forms can be downloaded from the Teagasc website. Alternatively application forms can be obtained directly from the agricultural and horticultural colleges.
Six colleges offer level 5 and 6 programmes in agriculture. These include the three Teagasc colleges, Ballyhaise, Clonakilty and Kildalton and the three Teagasc linked private agricultural colleges; Gurteen, Mountbellew and the Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry.
All of the agricultural colleges are also involved in higher education delivery with partner higher education institutions.
Two colleges offer level 5 and 6 horticultural programmes; these are the Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin and Kildalton College in Co. Kilkenny.
Both colleges provide high-quality, hands-on education and training in horticulture and also deliver higher education programmes in partnership with Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT).
Kildalton College is also a nationally recognised centre for equine education and training and offers QQI accredited programmes in horsemanship and stud management. Ballyhaise College is a very well recognised provider of skills based education and training at level 5 and 6 for those seeking work in the forestry sector.
In highlighting the Friday, May 27, closing date for applications, Teagasc Head of Education Tony Pettit acknowledged the emphasis on education and training and up-skilling in the recent Food Wise 2025 report.
Agricultural education is a key investment for the agri-food sector. Research has confirmed that Teagasc education provides a high economic return, both at individual farm level, and to the country at large.
“The ‘Green Cert’ is now a prerequisite for a wide range of young farmer incentive schemes.”
Commenting on the continuing very high level of demand for Teagasc adult part-time and distance education Green Cert programmes, Pettit said that most adults are not in a position to attend full-time agricultural college courses.
“However for some adults the agricultural college option has proven to be a very suitable option and should not be discounted. Teagasc colleges and private college can advise individuals on the best options.”