Students interested in enrolling for land-based apprenticeships have been invited to attend a webinar held by Teagasc tomorrow (Wednesday, March 20) at 11:00a.m.
The webinar will discuss opportunities awaiting potential apprentices in agriculture and horticulture.
Some of the current apprentices and their employers will share learning experiences on the webinar.
This will include a live broadcast from a dairy farm, showing an example of daily operations.
Attendees will also hear about potential career options after studying.
Teagasc launched land-based apprenticeships in partnership with SOLAS, which began late last year.
It currently offers four two-year apprenticeships, which include:
- Horticulturist Apprenticeship: Higher Certificate in Horticulture, offered at The College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Dublin;
- Sportsturf Management Apprenticeship: Higher Certificate in Sportsturf Management, offered at Kildalton College, Co. Kilkenny;
- Farm Technician Apprenticeship: Higher Certificate in Technical Farm Operations, offered at Clonakilty Agricultural College, Co. Cork;
- Farm Manager Apprenticeship: Bachelor of Science in Professional Sustainable Farm Management, offered at Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny.
The farm manager apprenticeship creates a pathway to a managerial career in the agricultural sector, equipping the apprentice with the latest research and best practice management knowledge to successfully run a commercial farm business.
The farm technician apprenticeship trains apprentices to operate successfully within farming systems, gaining skills in daily operations, compliance with industry standards and regulatory measures.
Head of Education in Teagasc, Dr. Anne Marie Butler said: “I would encourage all second level students with an interest in agriculture or horticulture to consider enrolling for an apprenticeship.
“We are open for enrolment of apprentices for the academic year 2024/2025. This webinar will showcase the opportunities available around the newly launched apprenticeships.”
The event is open for applications on the Teagasc website for any student, employer or guardian considering a career or apprenticeships in agriculture, horticulture and the wider agriculture industry.