• Three GCSEs at grade D or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh or Mathematics/Numeracy
• Each application is considered on individual merit
• Entry is subject to an informal interview

• Successful completion of current/relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting

Please read the full entry requirements above as you will usually need to meet those as well.

Units studies will include:

• Work experience in the land-based industries
• Environmental and land-based business
• Participate in providing estate maintenance
• Tractor driving
• Introduction to countryside access and recreation
• Conservation and improvement of British habitats
• Introduction to the principles of land-based machinery

As part of the course you will also develop skills in problem solving, personal thinking, communication and working with others which are transferable to whichever course you decide to pursue in the future.

The course is run over four days per week with two days spent in the classroom and two days delivered in a range of locations throughout Pembrokeshire. Countryside practical sites vary from year to year but have included Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks, Jubilee Gardens in East Williamston, Haverfordwest Town Council, local farms as well as developing working projects with Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society at Withybush.

Practical projects are different each year and may also include:

• assisting in the building of:
  • stone walls
  • bridges
  • paths
  • steps or
  • installing stiles and gates
• mowing and strimming
• assisting in fencing
• introduction to hedgelaying
• introduction to coppicing
• tree planting for beginners

As part of the course you will also learn how to drive a tractor, how to maintain small engines, the impact of using the countryside for leisure, how to be more employable and undertake an introduction to small business management. Learners also receive timetabled tutorials from their Course Tutor.

Learners are able to complete either the full qualification or certain units or elements through the medium of Welsh/bilingually.

• Continuous assessment during the course
• Practical assessment during the course
• Portfolio of evidence

Successful completion of this course and progression to a higher level programme could lead to a number of future career opportunities including: Grounds Maintenance, Hedgerow Maintenance, Countryside Warden, Farm Worker, Gardener, Fencer, Tree Surgeon, Gamekeeper, Forestry Worker, Landscaper, Woodland Maintenance, Self-employment.

Following successful completion of this course learners could look to progress to a higher level course at the College, seek an appropriate Apprenticeship or go directly into employment.

• Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Clothing, which you can purchase online before you start the course
• Practical/comfortable clothing for parts of the course
• Ensure that your Tetanus vaccination and any other appropriate vaccinations are up to date before commencing work with animals or in the countryside
• You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

• No tuition fee
• We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2022/23
• There is a annual workshop fee for this course (£20 - £60), payable before you start the course
• You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page