Whanganui-based Ag Challenge has developed and received NZQA approval for a suite of new agriculture programmes which credits to the latest registered New Zealand Certificates.
Programmes have been written using NZQA unit standards; a useful educational currency, easily recognised by employers and transferable into the schools for credit to NCEA. The focus for the new programmes is dairying and pastoral farming.
Two new programmes on offer for semester 1 are:
Next Generation: Farming Skills (Level 2) a fees free, 15 week fulltime programme designed as a practical way for those people who are undecided whether farming is for them to gain skills in Milking, Stock Handling, Tractors and Motorbikes framed by the principles of workplace health and safety. Graduates will be able to apply for jobs as farm labourers or progress on to further study/apprenticeships.
Stepping up to the Next Generation: Farming Systems Technology (Level 3) a 24 week fulltime programme, introducing a student to the science and technology used in pastoral production in our region. Topics include the use of GPS, herd testing and environmental sustainability. Theory is balanced by practical content offering a choice of dairy or sheep farm production tasks. Graduates would move into the industry as farm assistants or apprenticeships or consider higher level study.