Why study with Telford?

Modern farming requires a blend of practical on-farm skills with up-to-date knowledge of farm management and industry practices. Telford’s 37 week programme is designed to give you the skills to be a modern progressive farmer.

Telford offers small classes with a hands on training emphasis. On average, two out of three weeks will involve farm placements or workshop modules.

Programme Content

Studying agriculture at Telford gives you the opportunity to learn a variety of farming skills that will serve you well in your career as a farmer. This programme places significant emphasis on developing practical skills, with at least 65% of course content involving hands-on learning. Field trips are always an enjoyable part of the year and add another valuable dimension to the course.

Throughout the year you will also study sheep, beef, dairy and deer farming systems.

During regular work experience at Telford, you will either work on one of our farm units or on other farms in the Otago/Southland regions. Many students are offered employment through their work experience.

Telford has 30 dog kennels, so you may have an opportunity to bring a heading dog in the second semester.

Practical Projects

As part of the programme you will have an opportunity to integrate your learning and interests into various projects, e.g. design and build farm equipment, livestock production project, weeds and grasses project.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the Telford Certificate in Agriculture (Level 3), you will be able to confidently undertake a variety of agriculture related tasks, using your knowledge of agricultural practices and animal husbandry. Shepherds, contractors, farm assistants, shearers, stock agents, wool handlers, sharemilkers, and relief milkers are just a few of the positions in which our graduates are employed.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be aged 16 years or over
• Have completed at least three years at secondary school, and achieved the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (Level 1), or equivalent
• Be confident they can succeed at Level 3 and have the physical ability to manage the work without putting themselves or others at risk
• Have adequate literacy and numeracy skills.

If English is not your first language you will be required to provide evidence of competency, for example an overall IELTS test score of 5.5 overall band score, with 5.5 for reading and writing, and with no individual component less than 5.0.

Other

Opportunities to gain your First Aid Certificate, Heavy Traffic and Firearms Licences are available through third party providers.

Second Year Option

For those who qualify, it is possible to continue your studies with the Diploma in Agriculture (Level 5).