Prospectus. A Specialist College of Further and Higher Education Specialising in the Land and the Environment.

Transcription

1 Prospectus Plumpton College Further Education Courses A Specialist College of Further and Higher Education Specialising in the Land and the Environment

2 CONTENTS & WELCOME TO PLUMPTON COLLEGE Contents Welcome... 1 Being a Student... 2 Facilities How to Apply Fees & Finance Term Dates Adventure Education (Sport) Agriculture Animal Care Blacksmithing Environmental Conservation Equine Management Fishery Management Floristry Forestry and Arboriculture Game and Wildlife Management Horticulture Machinery Rural Pathways Step into Work...12 Map... Inside back cover Welcome to Plumpton College Plumpton College is located at the foot of the picturesque South Downs in the centre of the South Downs National Park. This location offers students a perfect environment in which to study their chosen subject. The College is six miles from Lewes, the County Town and nine miles from Brighton. Major transport routes are within easy reach and London is only an hour away. The College is close to the village of Plumpton Green where there is a local shop, post office and bus and train services. The main College was established in 1926 and now offers a very wide range of landbased courses covering Agriculture, Horticulture, Garden Design, Agricultural Machinery, Motor Vehicle Technology, Blacksmithing, Metalsmithing, Creative Metalworking & Jewellery, Animal Care and Management, Veterinary Nursing, Forestry and Arboriculture, Equine, Countryside Management, Fishery Management and Gamekeeping, Viticulture and Wine Production, Sport (Outdoor Education) and Business Studies. Additional centres in Sussex at Stanmer Park, Flimwell and Netherfield provide full and part time courses and a range of employer focused courses. The College s centre in Wales in the Snowdonia National Park provides excellent additional training and experience opportunities for many groups of students. Courses are offered from school year old programmes through post school entry and introductory levels, Diploma courses at level 2 and level 3 to Foundation Degree, BSc Degree level and Post Graduate levels. There is an extensive apprenticeship provision. The main College is situated in the centre of the College s 900 hectare estate. The estate provides excellent practical and demonstration facilities for students for their chosen area of study. The College offers a wide range of courses which are listed in this Prospectus. I am sure that within this range there will be a course for you! Do contact us if we can be of any further assistance. Jeremy Kerswell Principal 1

3 Being a Student BEING A STUDENT ACCOMMODATION The College has residential facilities for over 200 students and was graded outstanding by OFSTED at our last inspection. Residency is available to all but is prioritised for those whose courses include early morning/late evening routines and/or for those for whom daily travel would be difficult. Most rooms are single study bedrooms with facilities ranging from shared to en-suite. There is a range of local lodgings available. Further details of residential arrangements can be found on our website and further information will be given at interview. CANTEEN/SNACK BARS Our dining room offers excellent food throughout the day to cater for all tastes. There are also two snack bar style shops where students can purchase food, drinks and general items and there is a range of vending machines. SOCIAL LIFE There are three student common rooms with an additional three smaller common room areas for residential students. A bar area with numerous activities such as table football and pool is available. There are large screen TVs for playing DVDs and music etc. During the day one common room doubles up as a snack bar with areas to sit and relax. Our students run an active Social Committee and work directly with the Student Services department to put on a full and varied social calendar. Activities such as themed bar nights, ice skating trips, ten-pin bowling, and cinema trips are always popular. The social calendar culminates with the Summer Ball, which is always held in the last week of the academic year. Away from the College there are plenty of attractions in nearby Brighton. The College also has an active Young Farmers Club which is open to all students. SPORTS FACILITIES The College has a well equipped sports hall which provides excellent sporting opportunities. There are facilities for 5-a-side football, netball, badminton, cricket, basketball, volleyball, hockey and indoor tennis and a popular climbing wall. Outdoor facilities include a sports field, two tennis courts, football, rugby and cricket pitches. Regular coaching and practice sessions are held on demand for interested students. The College runs several successful sports teams including football (men s and women s), rugby, netball, mixed hockey, mixed rounders and cricket. Wednesday afternoons are designated sports periods where students can enjoy taking part in any sporting activities they enjoy, or represent the various teams in fixtures against other colleges. The College also has its own on-site gymnasium which caters for most exercise needs. This facility is open to all students and is available for use after a short induction conducted by our own qualified instructor. The extensive estate of 900 hectares is also available for sports activities or for just going for a walk or ride to enjoy the countryside. 2

4 PLUMPTON FACILITIES Facilities TRANSPORT TO COLLEGE For those travelling daily there are a variety of ways you can reach the College: Bus: The College bus network covers most of East Sussex and parts of West Sussex in order for students to access College. A full timetable and route map for this service can be downloaded at and a copy will be given to you at interview. There is also a regular public bus service between the College and local towns. We help as much as we can to get you to College and bursaries may be available to help you. Train: The College can be accessed from several train stations. Although the stations are sited away from the College there are connecting buses that coincide with College timings, to get you here on time. Car: There is parking on the campus for students cars. Students are required to register their car details on enrolment and abide by the speed limit and College regulations at all times. STUDENT SERVICES Student Services are there to help you throughout your time at College. The dedicated team are on hand 24 hours a day to help you ensure that all goes smoothly and help with any problems, issues or questions whether big or small. They help you with your academic studies and assist you with College social life. All you have to do is ask!! The College facilitates access to counselling services for all students and this can be arranged through Student Services or your tutor. IT FACILITIES Students benefit from a full range of IT services, including access to the latest PCs, laptops, software and printers. There is guest internet access for all internet-enabled devices. Resident students can also access services such as the Xbox LIVE room, complete with Microsoft Xbox consoles and LCD TVs for evening entertainment. Students are encouraged to bring their own laptops or hire one from the IT department. A new IT centre was recently opened to ensure you have the most up to date IT facility. LIBRARY The Library contains over 10,000 books on land based subjects and a wide selection of periodicals, 3000 e-books are also available on campus. The fully air conditioned library contains the following: Seating for 124 students in a variety of modern arrangements which allow for group or individual study, with or without computers. This includes comfortable seating areas for reading the paper or working with friends. The library is divided into two zones: for either quiet or group work and colour coded accordingly. 16 study carols are provided, as well as study tables for individual working. An adjacent conference/meeting room is provided with electronic white board and projector which can be used by students for presentations or research sessions. Disabled access and hearing loop. WALES FARM AND ESTATE The main College Farm extends to 900 hectares and comprises 340 Holstein cows, a modern high welfare pig unit, 500 breeding ewes, a Sussex suckler herd and a wide range of arable crops. Part of the farm is organic to demonstrate this type of production and to utilise areas of the South Downs which are farmed in association with the National Trust. The College estate demonstrates a wide range of ecological diversities and land use and is extensively used for conservation, land management and leisure activities as well as commercial farming. Many of the hedgerows are centuries old and the introduction of stewardship strips of long grass as corridors of cover allow small mammals to pass safely from various habitats and make suitable sites for ground nesting birds. Nesting boxes for barn owls have been used successfully across the estate and tawny owls breed in several woods on the estate. 3

5 GAME MANAGEMENT Game management students run a commercial shoot at the College, breeding all the pheasants and last year the shoot released 3000 poults. Students are taught to recognise the importance of managing the land correctly by incorporating the many hedges, cover crops, field margins and woodlands within the countryside. associated metalworking equipment. The area also includes jewellery and creative metalworking practical workshops. HORTICULTURAL UNIT Horticulture can be studied both at the main college site at Plumpton or at Stanmer Park on the outskirts of Brighton. The amenity area surrounding the College buildings includes mixed borders, herbaceous beds, a rock and water feature, a fruit garden and a vegetable plot. A small area of cold and heated glass with a mist propagation unit and polythene tunnels provide protected cropping areas. The campus also supports areas allotted to trial and research work and includes specialist plant collections of regional and national importance. A number of pitches are maintained. All students attending horticultural courses are involved in developing and maintaining each campus, allowing hands on experience through practical involvement. Facilities at Stanmer include glasshouses and planted areas and a unique Palmhouse. COLLEGE FACILITIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT The College estate includes a lake and excellent quality chalk streams which are home to a range of invertebrates such as mayflies and caddis flies which are a good indicator of the water quality found in the College streams. Fishery management students also use an extensive range of local lakes which they help local angling clubs to manage. These facilities create a unique diversity for student experience and learning. EQUINE UNIT The large equine unit is a BHS approved centre and consists of two well equipped yards, a traditional yard of 20 boxes and an American Barn designed yard with 40 boxes. There are two indoor schools, a large outdoor school, horse walker, mechanical horse and cross country course. The extensive College Estate is ideal for hacking out. MACHINERY WORKSHOPS AND FORGE The College has eight workshops with up-to-date facilities to support students in the repair and maintenance of landbased machinery and motor vehicles. The extensive welding workshop covers MIG, TIG, gas and electric arc welding. The forge contains 12 modern forges with COLLEGE WINE CENTRE A purpose-built Wine Centre consists of a commercial and research winery, two laboratories, a lecture theatre, a wine evaluation room and a room for special events. This unique facility is designed to provide a full range of services for professionals in the wine trade and in wine production. A new wine research facility has recently been completed. The College s 7-hectare vineyard produces over twenty thousand bottles of wine a year, which are vinified in the winery and marketed by the College. 4

6 COLLEGE FACILITIES COLLEGE OUT CENTRES Netherfield This centre near Battle is the College s longest established out centre and provides land-based education and training in the east of the county of East Sussex. The Centre has a range of facilities and provides courses in agriculture, horticulture and animal care. Further details of these courses can be found in the centre s own prospectus. and vegetable gardens. It also has a laboratory and tissue culture facility where micro propagation of orchids and shrubs is carried out. Snowdonia National Park Centre This centre is based on the National Trust s Snowdonia Hill farm and is run in partnership with the National Trust. Facilities include a 32- bed hostel which is located at the foot of Snowdon within easy reach of lakes, rivers and challenging climbing all of which combine to provide a unique environment which is extensively used by Outdoor Adventures Activities students. Agriculture students also use the centre as a base for studying agriculture in a different part of the country. Woodland Enterprise Centre at Flimwell This centre is located in 20ha of ancient woodland which is managed by the College and is used for practical training for a range of forestry students. The centre includes workshops, machinery and classrooms. Flimwell is also the base for the Colleges Sustainable Food Farming and Forestry Centre which provides a wide range of landbased courses, including forestry and arboriculture and woodland management. Sailing Academy at Newhaven The College s Sailing and Water Sports Academy is based on a large inland water near Newhaven. The lake is a perfect training site for all water sports with good classroom, kitchen and changing facilities. The Academy has been developed in conjunction with Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club and there is also access to the sea. Some of the extensive fleet of boats which are available for student training have been kindly donated to the College by the Plumpton College Charitable Foundation. Stanmer Park Centre This centre is located on the outskirts of the City of Brighton within the historic Stanmer Park. This centre specialises in horticultural courses and facilities include glasshouses, a palm house, decorative areas, lawns, ponds, fruit orchards 5

7 How to Apply The chart below shows the many pathways and routes through the various courses that you can take at College. Don t worry if it looks complicated our staff will help you make the decision that is right for you. LEVEL 7 LEVEL 6 LEVEL 5 Full and Part Time Courses Masters BSc/BA Foundation Degree Foundation Diploma Higher Education HOW TO APPLY FOR A COURSE LEVEL 4 Employment LEVEL 3 Level 3 Extended Diploma Level 3 Diploma Work Based Learning or Apprenticeships LEVEL 2 Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Level 2 Diploma/Extended Certificate Work Based Learning or Apprenticeships Further Education LEVEL 1 Land-Based Studies Level 1 Certificate/Diploma Work Based Diploma Level 1 Traineeships ENTRY LEVELS 1, 2 & 3 Rural Pathways Supported Internships Traineeships Growing Skills ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS The entry qualifications for each course are set out in the prospectus. If you are over 19 years of age with relevant experience, but without formal qualifications, you may still be able to enrol on one of our courses. We consider relevant work experience, interest and enthusiasm are just as important as formal qualifications. The content of all courses listed is indicative and subject to change by Awarding Bodies. Course provision is dependent on viable numbers of applications. 6

8 HOW TO APPLY FOR A COURSE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES The College encourages applications from all sections of the community and its provision is available to all those who are able to achieve the required standard and is free from barriers and restrictions which might restrict access and progression. HELP FROM COURSE TUTORS All students are assigned a Course Tutor who will help you to plan your programme of study, and helps to monitor your progress. The tutor will provide help and guidance on a wide range of study related issues, and they will help you decide on which direction to take your study, either to progress into employment or further study. ENGLISH AND MATHS We encourage all our students to continually improve their skills in English and maths. This includes developing skills in the vocational application of English and maths and to gain qualifications. Employers increasingly want to employ students with good English and maths skills as well as being well trained in their vocational area. Higher grades in English and maths qualifications improve a student s initial employment changes and also the potential to progress to more responsible jobs within their chosen industry. The policy of the current government is that all students under 19 years of age when their course starts and who have not obtained GCSE grade C or above in English and maths MUST continue to take either GCSE or Functional Skills in those subjects whilst they are at College. Students with GCSE Grade D in English and/or maths MUST retake the GCSE until they achieve Grade C. The College does not have any option with this. Many of our vocational qualifications, especially at level 3 require detailed portfolio evidence to be produced which requires a good standard of English and maths. Therefore, the College uses English and maths qualification results as evidence of meeting entry criteria for Study Programmes which include vocational programmes. The level of English and maths required for vocational qualifications at a particular level sometimes differs between vocational subjects because some qualifications have compulsory modules set by the Awarding Body and these might require a higher standard of English and/or maths. Our general approach to enrolling students onto Study Programmes is to take a case by case approach, reflecting the demands of the Study Programme, the ability of the student and the evidence of recent progress made with English and maths. As a broad guide, the following apply: Level 3 Study Programmes Direct enrolment onto a Study Programme containing a Level 3 Extended Diploma requires a minimum of 5 GCSE grades A-C, including English and maths. Students without grade C English and/or maths will take a Study Programme with a Subsidiary Diploma (part of the Extended Diploma to allow time to study and retake English and maths) Students can progress from Study Programmes containing Subsidiary Diploma, to ones containing Diplomas to ones containing Extended Diplomas based on their vocational ability and their improvement in English and maths Level 2 Study Programmes Direct enrolment onto a Study Programme containing a Level 2 Diploma requires a minimum of 2 GCSE grades A-D, Students without grade Cs in English and/or maths will take a Study Programme including both English and maths, either at GCSE (if student has achieved a D grade previously) or functional skills 7

9 Level 1 and Entry level Study Programmes Students will usually take functional skills as part of their Study Programme to develop their English and maths to support progression to higher level programmes Students with formally assessed learning difficulty(ies) which preclude them from taking qualifications in English and maths will continue to study English and maths but will not be required to sit a formal examination. LEVELS OF COURSES Your studies can be full time or part time. Courses are offered from Entry and Introductory level through a variety of Diplomas and certificates at Level 2 and Level 3 through to Degree Level. There are a wide range of progression routes available to enable your study to be as beneficial as possible for you. Level 2 courses are equivalent to GCSE and Level 3 courses are equivalent to A Levels. APPLYING FOR A COURSE Once you have decided which course you wish to apply for, complete and return the application form (found in the middle of this prospectus). When we have processed your application we will contact you either by or letter to arrange an interview. We are always available to answer any questions that you may have. You only have to ask!!! LEARNING SUPPORT We want all students to have the best possible learning experience whilst they are with us and we understand the transition from School to College can be challenging for some. You must remember we are here to help with any aspect of your learning. Studying English and Maths is an important part of all programmes at the College. All students complete an initial assessment in English and Maths, to enable us to identify how best to plan your studies. We have a variety of resources to help students and also additional support to help you develop the skills required for independent study, e.g.: Support to develop skills in literacy, numeracy, ICT, organisational, planning and research Dyslexia assessment and support with Dyslexia resources, for example, coloured overlays, digital voice recorders, reading pens Support to use a range of specialist software such as Inspirations, Clairol reading package and Dragon (voice activated) Hearing loops Visual and hearing impaired specialist support workers and/or signers. FEES & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE You may also visit the College by prior arrangement to have a look around and discuss different courses before you make your final choice. The College also holds autumn and spring career advice mornings, see page 7 for details of dates. Your Course Tutor will help you with learning support. Your course starts with a thorough induction to make sure it is right for you. After 3 to 4 weeks following induction, we will confirm the full details of your programme of study by mid October. 8

10 FEES AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Fees & Financial Assistance All EU Students aged years old: For all EU students aged on 31st August in the year that their programme starts, there are no tuition fees or examination fees. They will however have to pay a facilities fee. Students aged 19 and over: Students aged 19 or over on 31st August, in the year their programme starts, will have to pay tuition fees, examination fees and a facilities fee. Fee remission may be available for some students aged including for those who are unemployed and on means tested benefits and for those studying for their first full Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 qualification. Please ask for details at interview or call Admissions to discuss on Programme Full Time Courses at Entry/Level 1 (19-23 yr olds) Full Time Courses at Entry/Level 1 (24+ yr olds) Full Time Courses at Level 2 (19+ yr olds) Full Time Courses in Floristy Full Time at Level 3 (19-23 yr olds) Ful Time Level 3 (24+ yr olds) International Students Facilities Fee Residential Facilities Fee Non Residential Assessment Fee Tuition Fee Free 1,200 1,200 1,000 1,200 1,000-4,500pa 10,000pa Please visit our website or contact for further information 9

11 BURSARY The college administers bursary funds on a discretionary basis to provide financial assistance to eligible students who, without support, would not have access to learning. In most cases, in kind payments will be made for example; transport passes for college buses, lunch in the Dining Room or provision of equipment such as protective clothing. This enables us to focus on educational need, maximise value from the limited funding received and recognise continued attendance. We give priority to vulnerable students (as defined by the Government) and to students who are in a household with an annual income below 22,000. Discounted tickets on our own bus service where this is available Discounted meals in the Dining Room (available at Plumpton & Netherfield but not at Stanmer Park) Personal Protective Equipment Other equipment and materials Educational study trips/expeditions Payment of the College facilities fee Fee reductions for accommodation FEES & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE RESIDENTIAL BURSARY Help with Residential costs is also available via a bursary fund. LOCAL AUTHORITY TRAVEL GRANTS The Local Authorities, East Sussex Council and Brighton and Hove City Council may provide travel grants to their residents who are 18 or under. We expect eligible students to apply to their Local Authority for a travel grant. If you are unsuccessful, then a copy of the decision letter should be supplied and we will consider what support is available from the bursary fund. Students who are eligible for a Local Authority travel grant should apply as soon as their local authority accept applications which is usually in July. FREE MEALS IN FE The Government extended its free school meals scheme to FE Colleges in September Students do better in their studies when they have access to regular meals. There are healthy options on the daily menu. Eligible students are aged and from a low income household. Interested students should complete the College bursary application form and we will assess application against the current criteria. CHILDCARE We consider applications for childcare bursaries for learners aged 20 and over at the start of their course. 24+ LOAN The loan system is operated by the Student Loans Company. Loans are not means tested and the student is not credit checked. Repayments do not start until the learner is earning over 21,000 after April To be eligible the student must be: 24 or over at the start of their course Studying a full time Level 3 or 4 course, such as Access to HE courses or Level 3 diplomas (please telephone to check the eligibility of short courses) A resident in the UK for the past 3 years For further information visit https@/ or contact our Student Finance Officer on or by duffinp@plumpton.ac.uk Please visit our website or contact for further information 10

12 TERM DATES / OPEN DAYS & COURSE ADVICE SESSIONS Plumpton College Term Dates 2016/2017 Autumn Term Start: Study Week: Autumn Term End: Spring Term Start: Study Week: Spring Term End: Summer Term Start: Summer Term End: Monday 5th September 2016 (enrolment week 5th-9th) Monday 24th Oct - Friday 28th October 2016 Friday 16th December 2016 Monday 2nd January 2017 Monday 13th-Friday 17th February 2017 Friday 31st March 2017 Tuesday 18th April 2017 Friday 16th June 2017 Open Days & Course Advice Sessions 2015/2016 Saturday 10th October 2015 Saturday 7th November 2015 Saturday 9th January 2016 Saturday 5th March 2016 Saturday 14th May 2016 Saturday 21st May 2016 Thursday 30th June 2016 Information Morning Courses & Careers Advice Information Morning Courses & Careers Advice Information Morning Courses & Careers Advice Information Morning Courses & Careers Advice College Open Day Horse Show Plumpton College Information Evening Courses & Careers Advice 9am-12.30pm 9am-12.30pm 9am-12.30pm 9am-12.30pm 10am-5pm 9am-5pm 3pm-7pm An opportunity to discuss course options with staff, and have a short tour of the College. An opportunity to discuss course options with staff, and have a short tour of the College. An opportunity to discuss course options with staff, and have a short tour of the College. An opportunity to discuss course options with staff, and have a short tour of the College. A great day out for families and friends. In association with the Sussex Federation of Young Farmers Clubs. Advise about all courses. A wide variety of show jumping, dressage, gymkhana and horse showing events. The show is organised and staged by the equine students. An ideal opportunity to discuss course options with staff, and have a short tour of the College. Taster Days (ask for separate booklet) Not sure which course? Come on a Taster Day, Taster Days are designed to give pupils in Years 9, 10 and 11 an insight into the large variety of courses available at the College. Taster days provide you with an opportunity to spend a day experiencing a subject of your choice and will make it easier for you to make a decision about your future study and career. Although taster courses are predominantly for those in years 10 & 11, students in year 9 are also eligible if space allows. The individual subject taster courses are designed for students who aim to undertake a level 2 (you will need at least 2 good GCSEs) or level 3 course ( you will need at least 4 good GCSEs) after leaving school. Students who are unlikely to get two good GCSEs and might need some time to work at level 2 would find the general Rural Pathways taster course more suitable. Taster courses are held at the College main site but in addition specific subjects are held at: Netherfield (near Battle) Agriculture & Rural Pathways Agriculture - Tuesday 27th October 2015, Tuesday 16th February 2016, Tuesday 28th June Foundation Level - Wednesday 28th October 2015, Wednesday 17th February 2016, Wednesday 29th June 2016 Flimwell (near Wadhurst) Forestry Wednesday 28th October 2015 and Wednesday 17th February 2016 Stanmer Park (Brighton) Horticulture Wednesday 28th October 2015 and Wednesday 17th February 2016 At the end of the taster day, there will be an opportunity for you to ask a member of staff any questions you may have and to discuss a possible career in the subject that interests you. Ask for a separate leaflet and booking form. Contact Karen Hayes, the Taster Course Administrator on tel: , admissions@plumpton.ac.uk 11

13 Step into Work - Supported Internships (Entry Level) Offered at either Plumpton or Netherfield Programme Leader/Tutor: Mel Simmonds Duration: One year The Supported Internship programme is designed to help young people with a learning difficulty/disability into employment. On this study programme a student (intern) will: Go through a process to identify suitable jobs that suit their abilities. Learn job related skills. Increase their awareness of real work places. Carry out a 6 month work placement with a well matched employer. Get appropriate levels of job coaching support. Increase their chances of getting paid work. Have the opportunity to further develop their English and Maths skills. No entry qualifications are required however applicants must be between 16 and 24 years of age at the start of the course, have a learning difficulty/disability and be motivated to learn new skills and move into work. Programme Content All about employment - Awareness of the Workplace. All about Me - Professional Development. Personal and Social Development. English and maths (see page 7). ICT. Work Experience A significant proportion of the course, January to June, is comprised of work experience. Interns will be placed in appropriate and challenging real work environments, where there is a chance of paid work at the end of the internship. STEP INTO WORK - SUPPORTED INTERNSHIPS Qualifications Gained Edexcel Award in Work Skills College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths This is a transition course designed to progress learners from College into employment. 12

14 RURAL PATHWAYS Rural Pathways (Entry Level Course) Offered at either Plumpton or Netherfield Programme Leader/Tutor: Claudette Atkinson (Plumpton) Kathryn Hamilton (Netherfield) Duration: One to three years A flexible one year Entry Level programme, although students may do a further year when necessary. The course is designed for entry level learners with an interest in practical rural activities and who require further development of their social and communication skills. Students on the programme will also continue to develop their English and maths skills. No formal qualifications are required to access the programme however learners will need to have a keen interest in working outside, with plants and animals. The programme also includes a range of flexible learning opportunities in and outside of the College and will include sessions in some of the following areas (depending on the site where the course is delivered) Programme Content Horticulture Animal Care Agriculture Countryside and Environment Outdoor Education Activities Art and Craft Personal and Social Development English and maths (see page 7) Visits / Outings Qualifications Gained An entry level vocational qualification College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Progression Opportunities Students will have the opportunity to progress to a Level 1 programme where their academic ability, including English and maths levels, meet the entry criteria. Alternatively, learners may apply to our Step Into Work programme. 13

15 Land Based Studies (Level 1) Offered at either Plumpton or Netherfield Tutor: Kath Hamilton (Netherfield) Judy Hempstead (Plumpton) Duration: One year This one year programme is designed for school leavers and offers a route to employment or possible progression on to a Level 2 programme. You will normally spend between 2 and 3 days in College with the remainder of your time available for work experience. The programme is at level 1 and is available in three options which allows you to develop your practical agricultural skills and give you the flexibility to study at a pace most suitable to you. Your tutor will help you decide which subjects to study. AGRICULTURE You achieve a minimum of 7 credits over the range of subjects listed below (at least 4 credits must be at level 1 or above). You must achieve a minimum of 13 credits. You must achieve a minimum of 37 credits (19 credits must be achieved at level 1 or above). Ideally you will have studied at GCSE Level or an Entry Level 3 programme to ensure your best chance of successfully completing the programme. However, students without the above qualifications can apply and suitability can be assessed at interview. Assist with the maintenance of equipment Maintain the safety of self and others Assist with movement of animals Assist with preparing livestock accommodation Assist with monitoring livestock outdoors Assist with animal accommodation Care of farm animals Farm animal heath Assist with basic operation of a tractor Understanding soils Self management skills Working in a team Successful completion of this course may allow progression on to a Level 2 Programme in Agriculture or related subject. You may also obtain employment as an apprentice. 14

16 AGRICULTURE Agriculture (Level 2) Offered at either Plumpton or Netherfield Tutor: Judy Hempstead (Plumpton) Kathryn Hamilton (Netherfield) Duration: One year These are a group of level 2 qualifications which can be studied in a variety of combinations to allow flexibility and to help you to develop your farming knowledge and skills. you complete 2 subjects to study you complete 4 subjects to study you complete all 6 subjects to study This one-year programme designed for school leavers will introduce students to the basics of machinery, crop and animal husbandry and will develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work on a modern farm. Many students go on from this course to the BTEC National in Agriculture. There is also the opportunity to gain a range of additional qualifications. You will also have the opportunity to stay in our Welsh Centre and experience a working hill farm. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have at least one of the following :- A minimum of 2 GCSE passes at A - D grade A Level 1 qualification Appropriate interest and relevant experience Mature applicants who do not possess any of the above qualifications will be considered individually. Tractor driving Machinery operation Introduction to animal & plant husbandry Workshop skills Estate skills Industry experience* Environment and land based business* Farm animal production (*compulsory units for Diploma only) Qualifications Gained BTEC First at the level studied (outlined above) Plumpton College Certificate Additional Work Related Qualifications College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Following satisfactory completion of the full Diploma programme, students may progress on to the BTEC Level 3 Certificate, Subsidiary Diploma (1 year), Diploma (2 year) or Extended Diploma (3 years). This course could also provide entry in to an apprenticeship in Agriculture or full-time farm work such as assistant herdsperson, estate worker, machinery operator or general farm worker with crops or livestock. 15

17 Agriculture (Level 3) Tutor: Mark Campbell and Clive Brickell Duration: One, two or three Years These are a suite of level 3 qualifications which can be studied in a variety of combinations to allow flexibility and to help you to develop your practical and farm management skills. The courses are at the same level, but the number of subjects studied can vary. you complete 3 subjects to study you complete 6 subjects to study you complete 12 subject areas to study you complete all 18 subject areas to study AGRICULTURE Designed for people with some experience of the industry. The course covers many aspects of modern agriculture and allows you to develop your skills in a supportive and practical environment on the College s large and varied estate that includes modern examples of extensive and intensive farming practices. The second year is crucial as it gives you the opportunity to gain employment experience whilst developing and learning new skills. Many students choose to work abroad during this year in Australia and New Zealand or other countries where the College has employment links. The final year develops your management skills as you take on a supervisory role for routines and learn about planning the business. Overall, the course equips you with the necessary skills for taking responsibility as your career develops. Throughout the course, there is an opportunity to gain additional qualifications which are essential for work on modern arable and mixed farms. These include certificates in Rough Terrain Fork Lift Truck Use, PA1 & PA2 Sprayer Certificates and many more to add to your qualification base. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have at least one of the following :- Studied GCSE level qualifications (achieving 4 passes at A C for the full diploma) including English and maths A level 2 qualification Appropriate interest and relevant experience Mature applicants who do not possess any of the above qualifications will be considered individually. (*compulsory units for some Diploma levels only) Year 1 Plant science * Soil science * Sheep production Livestock husbandry Dairy production Crop production Pig production Grassland management Machinery operations Estate skills Qualifications Gained BTEC National in Agriculture at the level studied (outlined above) Plumpton College Certificate Additional Work Related Qualifications College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Assistant Farm Manager Self Employed contractor Shepherd Tractor driver and machinery operator Dairy herdsperson Pig unit assistant manager Trainee agronomist General farm worker Progression to an HE course Year 2 Industry experience * Year 3 Investigative project * Business management for the land based sector * Manage agricultural environments Livestock breeding & nutrition Beef production Workshop skills Use agricultural spreaders and sprayers Agricultural forage crop production 16

18 AGRICULTURE Dairy Husbandry (Level 3) Tutor: Mark Campbell Duration: One Year This is a flexible one year level three Subsidiary Diploma qualification which can be studied either as a stand-alone course or can be combined with a further 6 subjects to make up a broader Diploma or 12 subjects for an Extended Diploma in general Agriculture. The course is for those who wish to enter, or are currently working in the dairy industry and is designed to help develop practical dairy husbandry and herd management skills. These skills and knowledge will be developed through a mixture of both theoretical and practical sessions based around our new 350 cow dairy unit. These will cover all aspects of dairy work including feeding, breeding, animal health and clean milk production. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have at least one of the following :- 4 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English & maths, a Level 2 Qualification at Merit, appropriate interest and relevant experience. Programme Content (*indicates compulsory subject) Dairy Production Animal Anatomy and Physiology* Promote Animal Health Grassland Management Understand Livestock Breeding and Nutrition Investigate Project Study Industry Experience Qualifications Gained BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Agriculture Plumpton College Certificate Additional Work related qualifications which may include Safe Use of Veterinary medicines, Cow Signals, NPTC Animal Transport certificate, DIYAI course Progression to a College HE course is possible on completion. College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Herdsperson Self-employed relief milker Herd manager Breeding technician On Farm Veterinary support Nutritionist Foot trimmer Milking parlour technician 17

19 Introduction to Animal Care (Level 1) Offered at either Main College site or at Netherfield Tutor: Liz Pope/Debbie Hopkins Duration: One year A one-year programme at Level One which gives you an introduction to animal care. This programme is designed for school leavers, and offers a Level one entry route to employment or onto a Level 2 course or Work Based Learning programme. You will spend three days a week at College, the fourth and/or fifth day can be used to gain work experience. ANIMAL CARE Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have one or more of the following: Successful completion of the Rural Pathways programme An Entry level qualification, for instance: National Proficiency Test Council Vocational Foundation Certificate A standard of Literacy or Numeracy equivalent to GCSE grades D-G Some related work experience It is also important that the potential students have an active interest in the area of study. Students will undertake a range of units which cover essential aspects of animal care, working and employment skills, functional skills and personal development skills. The programme is continually assessed via practical activities and written work, which are recorded in a student maintained portfolio. Core Units Maintain the safety of self and others in the workplace Maintenance of equipment Care of animals Feedstuffs for small animals Animal accommodation Movement and handling of small animals Main Units Check that a small animal is healthy Catching and restraining a small animal Working in a team Groom a small animal Work Experience This is a useful way for students to improve practical skills and will provide good evidence of abilities and interest in the vocational area for potential employers or towards progression on to another subject related course. Following satisfactory completion of the programme, students may either undertake a second pathway unit or progress onto a Level 2 programme or alternatively students might follow a Work Based Learning path of study. 18

20 ANIMAL CARE Animal Care (Level 2 Diploma/Extended Certificate) Tutor: Katie Mans and Shona McMillan Duration: One year This course is designed to give you some experience of animal care, working with household pets, exotics, and large animals. You will spend one day a week on work experience, with three or four days at College divided between practical and theory sessions. The course is ideal for those wishing to develop a career in kennels, catteries, pet shops and rescue centres, or to progress onto the Subsidiary Diploma or Extended Diploma in Animal Management for those with Distinction grades. Work Experience: The programme includes a minimum of 200 hours (25 days) compulsory work experience achieved through one day a week with a suitable provider. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have a minimum of: 3 GCSE passes at grade A-D (ideally including English and Science), having completed core GCSE studies or a Land Based Studies Level 1 Animal Care qualification at Distinction Level Appropriate period of practical experience will also be considered Mature applicants who do not possess any of the above qualifications will be considered individually. Maintaining animal accommodation Practical animal feeding Conservation and improvement of British habitats Animal health and welfare Basic principles of animal biology Qualifications Gained BTEC Level 2 Diploma/Extended Certificate in Animal Care Plumpton College Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care Additional work related qualifications College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Following satisfactory completion of the programme, at Distinction Level students may progress to the following programme: BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management (2 years) (180 credits) BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Animal Management (60 credits) Alternatively, students might gain employment in areas such as: Kennels Catteries Rescue Centres Pet Shops Zoos Work experience in the animal care industry Nursing of animals Employment Skills English & Maths GCSEs and Functional Skills are also delivered and assessed throughout the programme (see page 7). 19

21 Animal Management (Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma) Tutor: Simon McGill and Elise Gerber Duration: One year This one year course is designed for students who wish to follow a shorter programme of study directly related to the animal care industry. Alternatively, those already employed may wish to formalise their skills by taking a National Qualification. Entrants will normally have some experience of working with companion animals. The programme develops both technical knowledge and practical skills through lectures, practicals, demonstrations, visits and one day per week at a work placement. The BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is an excellent preparation for employment in zoos, kennels, catteries, animal rehabilitation centres and with animal charities. ANIMAL CARE Work Experience: One day per week for the duration of the programme. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have: 4 GCSE passes at grade C or above, ideally to include Science, Mathematics and English, or a BTEC First Diploma in Animal Care at Distinction Level. Period of practical experience working with companion animals. Mature applicants who do not possess any of the above qualifications will be considered individually. Animal health Principles of animal biology Animal handling and safe working Work related experience in the animal care industry Qualifications Gained BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Animal Management Plumpton College Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Animal Management College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths Principles of animal nutrition and animal nursing Kennel and cattery management Principles & practices of exotic animals and their health and husbandry Students who achieve a Merit or Distinction at National Award may be able to progress to the Extended Diploma in Animal Management. Alternatively students may obtain employment in areas such as: Veterinary nursing Kennels and Catteries Zoos Pet shops Rescue centres 20

22 ANIMAL CARE Animal Management (Level 3 Extended Diploma) Tutors: Beverley Shingleton, Sarah Woodward and Lesley Barcock Duration: Two years This two-year programme is aimed at those who wish to work with animals in a managerial or supervisory capacity. Entrants will normally have some experience of working with companion animals. The programme develops both technical knowledge and practical skills through lectures, practicals, demonstrations, visits and one day per week at work placement. The BTEC Extended Diploma is an excellent preparation for higher education or employment in zoos, pet shops, rescue centres and with animal charities. Work Experience: One day per week for the duration of the programme. One week at a wildlife rehabilitation centre as part of wildlife rehabilitation and management. Students will normally be at least 16 years old on entry and have: 4 GCSE passes at grade C or above, ideally to include Science, Mathematics and English Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care at Distinction Level or Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma (Animal Management) at Merit Level Period of practical experience working with companion animals. Mature applicants who do not possess any of the above qualifications will be considered individually. Year 1 Review work related experience in the animal care industry Animal health Principles of animal biology Animal handling and safe working Plan and monitor animal feeding Managing animal accommodation Undertake an investigative project in the animal management sector Principles of animal nutrition Principles of animal nursing Interpreting animal behaviour and communication Animal welfare and breed development Principles and practice of exotic animal health and husbandry Qualifications Gained BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management Plumpton College Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management College award, Functional Skills or GCSEs in English & maths This programme is designed for those who are looking to work in a position of responsibility within the animal care industry. Employment may be as Veterinary Nurses, in Zoos, pet shops, or with kennels and catteries. Students achieving a merit or distinction at Extended Diploma may be able to progress to the Foundation Degree in either Animal Science or Veterinary Nursing. See College HE prospectus. Year 2 Review work related experience in the animal care industry Animal anatomy and physiology Wildlife management and rehabilitation Practice of biochemistry and microbiology Principles of wildlife populations, ecology and conservation Business management in the animal care sector Principles of animal breeding and genetics Principles of inheritance and genetic manipulation Pet store design and animal management 21