agriculture

Agriculture Jobs: Level 3 Poultry Technician

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Young woman feeding a gathering of chickens outdoors, demonstrating a duty of some agricultural jobs.

Featured Image by Freepik

Does the world of agriculture and poultry jobs interest you? If so, a Level 3 Poultry Technician could be a perfect pathway to kicking off your career!

Jobs and Entry Criteria

A completion of the Level 3 Poultry Technician apprenticeship can strongly lead to other agriculture jobs or other poultry farm positions in areas such as control, monitoring and management of processing operations or distribution, service and retail operations – if you don’t wish to take the natural progression to a poultry farm manager.

Poultry Technician: Overview

A Poultry Technician is responsible for the management and control of a complex poultry farming site or operational agriculture (hatchery) unit. This includes having responsibility for the performance and results of their site, raising animals with optimal welfare and consideration for their needs throughout their different life stages, hygiene compliance at all times, safety and bird welfare legislation – as well as customer standards which extend beyond legislative compliance, facility maintenance, and maintenance of the personnel of the site and all other site visitors.

The poultry technician job description outlines specific expertise and skills in agriculture jobs and duties relevant to their stage in the poultry supply chain – egg production, rearing, breeding, hatching or growing – along with knowledge of the other stages of the process.

Poultry Technician: Core Knowledge

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will demonstrate knowledge in the following:

  • Relevant species/breed, its anatomy, diseases, feed requirements, and general characteristics.
  • Signals and behaviours to look for that indicate health or welfare issues and the actions required to mitigate them.
  • Safety, hygiene and biosecurity legislation, codes and practice relevant to the operation and how they are applied effectively.
  • Relevant welfare codes of practice, including the five freedoms, Freedom from hunger and thirst, Freedom from discomfort, Freedom from pain, injury or disease, Freedom to express normal behaviour, Freedom from fear and distress together with the specific requirements appropriate for the species / point in the growth cycle including environmental conditions, correct processes for culling disposal and despatch, manual handling/ transport procedures and stocking densities.
  • End to end process of the operation, the stages within it and the understanding of how to deliver good performance as well as an awareness of the role of their operation within the wider supply chain.
  • Performance requirements of the operation including relevant cost, growth, mortality, waste, hygiene and safety metrics and the techniques and expertise required to influence them to deliver effective performance.
  • Standard operating procedures, methods of stock control, record keeping, and reporting relevant to their operation.
  • Running of their operation in terms of facility management, knowledge of systems, technology, software, machinery, and equipment. Some examples include feed and water equipment, ventilation panels, egg packing machinery and incubation equipment dependant on the stage in the process.
  • Necessary legislation, ethical code of practice and relevant policy and process, necessary to supervise and manage employees and contract/agency workers in their operation.

Poultry Technician: Core Skills

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will develop skills in the following:

  • Site Upkeep
  • Health and Safety
  • Biosecurity
  • Hygiene and food safety
  • Bird Handling
  • Welfare
  • Environment
  • Operations
  • Standards
  • People

Poultry Technician: Core Behaviours

Throughout your apprenticeship you will demonstrate the following behaviours:

  • Leads by example, through their actions and behaviour, shows a strong work ethic through punctuality, consistent standards, diligence in the quality of their work, a positive attitude and good attention to detail.
  • Takes appropriate responsibility and ownership of decision making for good welfare practice, care of animals integrity/ethics in the process and site standards.
  • Challenges themselves and others, embraces new ways of thinking, and encourages others to do the same. Displays a positive mind set, through their willingness to learn, proactive approach, ability to act on their own initiative, and willingness to solve problems and acquire new skills.
  • Manages and coaches others effectively, work well with colleagues and, communicates and gives feedback effectively, shows respect for other people and gives them time and support.
  • Looks to continuously improve their operation, adapt quickly to changing conditions, technologies, situations and working environments. Able to prioritise effectively and adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Maintains quality of work under pressure, demonstrates resilience and determination, shown in their commitment, consistency in results and overall dedication to their work.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you will also need to demonstrate a minimum range of specialist knowledge and skills from one of the following options: rearing, breeding, egg production, hatching or bird grow out unit.

Poultry Technician: Considerations

Duration: 18 to 24 months is the expected average duration.

Level: This Standard is set at Level 3.

Qualifications:  Apprentices will need to achieve Level 2 English and Maths prior to taking the endpoint assessment (EPA).

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Poultry Technician apprenticeship is a valued pathway to securing a place among agriculture jobs, equipping qualified young people with the extensive knowledge and skills, as well as the experience, to thrive in a higher role in the industry.

To find out more about other apprenticeships within agriculture, as well as in environmental and animal care, please click the button below!

Find more apprenticeships here!

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Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship Level 6

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What is the Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor – Level 6 Apprenticeship?

The Level six Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship is designed to provide businesses and students with the latest scientific thinking, knowledge and skills to deliver a holistic approach to farming and agriculture in the UK.  

At the end of this thirty month course a graduating apprentice will be able to support farmers and growers maximise their crop yields utilising the best possible methods, enabling them to adapt to new regulations and policy to develop the best agricultural strategies for their businesses. 

The Level 6 Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship is essential for anyone who is serious about a career path in agricultural consultancy or investing in training up the next generation of cultivation experts.

What is the 10 Things about the Level 6 Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship that will convince you of it’s value:

Content:

  1. Learn About Agriculture And Horticulture On The Job
  2. Agriculture And Horticulture Driven By Scientific Knowledge And Research
  3. Relationships And Networking In The Agriculture And Horticulture Sector
  4. Communication
  5. Personal Development As You Become An Agriculture Or Horticulture Advisor
  6. Learn Management Skills
  7. Agriculture And Horticulture Policy And Legislation Made Easy
  8. Commercial Business Knowledge
  9. Environmental Challenges And Problem Solving
  10. Digital Systems
image shows a tractor in a field harvesting wheat from an aerial perspective
Tractor in field harvesting wheat – copyright Tomas Hertogh, unsplash.com

1. Learn About Agriculture Or Horticulture On The Job

From day one an apprentice will be interacting and getting on the job experience alongside professionals on farms, glasshouses, estates and in nurseries as well as learning from scientists, research companies and independent consultants to see first hand what modern crop growing is.

Extensive time is spent in the outdoors and on site working with plants, flowers and crops as hands-on learning is emphasised and real world experience is prioritised over theoretical understanding and classroom time, making it the perfect course for nature lovers.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices learn on the job. image shows scientists with plants under UV lighting
Scientists with plants under UV lighting – Copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

2. Agriculture And Horticulture Driven By Scientific Knowledge And Research

This apprenticeship is led and directed by the latest research and insights being discovered and developed within the agricultural sector and how these new techniques are maximising yields and profit whilst minimising environmental impacts. Apprentices will find themselves at the frontier of land management as they are exposed to precision farming, scientific research and experimental farming. 

Continual professional development during the apprenticeship will ensure that apprentices have the most up to date knowledge and the skillset to continue pursuing new understandings after graduation, share expertise with their colleagues and seek out innovative solutions, implementing them at cost.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices learn in a data and scientific driven environment. image shows man with agricultural engineering machine in a field
Man with agricultural engineering machine in field – copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

3. Relationships And Networking In The Agriculture And Horticulture Sector

A core part of becoming an agriculture or horticulture advisor is the ability to build trust with farmers, growers and relevant stakeholders through accountability and delivering on agreed objectives. Apprentices will learn about the agricultural sector’s values and culture and how to navigate life amongst tight knit communities, overcome local problems and challenge outdated practices without confrontation. 

The interpersonal skills that an apprentice develops will enable them to quickly build a network of clients, navigate conversations with professional bodies and identify hierarchical structures and decision-makers within organisations so they understand who to reach out to on different issues.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will build relationships and network. image shows a greenhouse full of tomato plants
Greenhouse full of tomato plants – copyright Zand Photography, unsplash.com

4. Communication

Apprentices will be continuously exposed to scientific theories and will be working with complicated data sets so it is essential that they are equipped to explain complex concepts and ideas in an accessible way to a range of people. Alongside this training in complaint management procedures and protocols and utilising the correct communication channels is provided so that apprentices can resolve business problems and connect with clients in the most effective and professional way.

As an apprentice builds confidence in themselves during their training they will be able to facilitate and chair meetings on relevant issues with relevant stakeholders and help communities reach collectively agreed outcomes.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will gain communication skills. image of three AI faming robots in a field tending to plants
Three AI farming robots in a field tending to plants – copyright James Baltz, unsplash.com

5. Personal Development As You Become An Agriculture Or Horticulture Advisor

This apprenticeship will enable students to understand their preferred working and learning styles so that they can be more efficient with their time and are actively encouraged to seek out feedback to help them develop their professionalism. Time management skills will also be developed so that apprentices can plan effectively for the short, medium and long term whilst gaining a flexible mindset so they can overcome any unforeseen obstacles or challenges and re-prioritise tasks when necessary. 

By the end of the apprenticeship skills such as self-reflection and evaluation will be second nature to an apprentice who will be able to identify successes and areas for improvement and how best to achieve goals and optimum outcomes on projects.

image shows a man watering in a commercial greenhouse
Watering in a commercial greenhouse – Zoe Schaeffer, unsplash.com

6. Learn Management Skills

Through self-development apprentices will be able to recognise different ways of working and preferred methods of communicating, enabling them to facilitate the best working environment and training for others. Apprentices will also be able to support a wider team to meet deadlines and manage workloads and help more junior co-workers create personal development plans, sharing their knowledge, expertise and best practice with them. 

Apprentices will learn how to employ active listening, ask appropriate questions and influence others in order to gain relevant information and reach the best solution for the farmer or grower and guide stakeholders to the most effective outcome.

  • Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn management skills. Image shows field of rolled hay bales
Field of rolled hay bales – copyright Nick Fewings, unsplash.com

7. Agriculture And Horticulture Policy And Legislation Made Easy

Through integrated learning, apprentices will gain comprehensive understanding of policies and legislation that affect the agricultural sector and how any national or international changes will impact the nature of their work. This is essential learning as a large part of an adviser’s career is to provide guidance on  best practices and how farmers and growers can maximise yields whilst complying with legislation, regulations and environmental policy. 

Health and safety and risk analysis is incredibly important for an advisor to understand thoroughly as industrial chemicals will be a part of their work, from storing materials correctly to being able to read labels and symbols to providing necessary reports, apprentices learn all aspects of this so that they can do their job safely, protecting themselves and others.

image shows seedlings being tended by a horticulturalist
Seedlings being tended by a horticulturalist – copyright Joshua Lanzarini, unsplash.com

8. Commercial Business Knowledge

Commercial business management skills for running farms and nurseries alongside financial land management will become second nature to apprentices as they learn during the course. Graduates will be able to calculate costs, negotiate and understand the financial implications of their advice and decision making and how it can impact on farmers and growers. 

An apprentice will gain a working knowledge of how to deliver on business outcomes in appropriate time-frames without compromising business values or culture whilst remaining GDPR compliant.

  • Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn commercial business knowledge. image shows man in white coat with tray of plants
Man in white coat with tray of plants – copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

9. Environmental Challenges And Problem Solving

Uncontrollable variables such as the weather, seasonality and climate change are inevitable challenges that an agricultural or horticultural advisor must attempt to mitigate whether through working with nature or taking steps to move crops into controllable environments such as glasshouses. 

An example of the type of work an apprentice might undertake to overcome poor crop growth might involve taking a soil sample and analysing it in a laboratory environment to understand pH, soil type, erosion and nutrient deficiencies. The apprentice will explore if the soil can be treated to improve harvests or if a different type of crop should be grown instead, weighing up the pros and cons to advise the farmer or grower appropriately.

Apprentices will explore how to overcome major pests that threaten UK crops and minimise damage whilst avoiding the development of pesticide resistant strains of weeds, insects and diseases, a difficult balance to find.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn about environmental challenges. Image shows a lavender field with a red telephone box
lavender field with red telephone box – copyright Abhishek Banik, unsplash.com

10. Digital Systems

Digital systems such as Management Information Systems have become an integral part of modern farming and enable agriculturalists to record and analyse data to make scientific decisions and implement strategies based on the results. An apprentice will be able to deliver the best solutions for farmers and growers through their understanding of these digital systems, producing comprehensive reports for clients that deliver tangible results, improving yields for everyone.

Image shows a tractor farming with a ploughing attachment in a field
A tractor farming with a ploughing attachment in a field – copyright Luke Thornton, unsplash.com

What next?

If you are keen to read about this apprenticeship in more detail and learning about entry requirements  we recommend checking out this page on the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education website where they break down key skills and knowledge that students will learn.

We wish you the best of luck with your apprenticeship journey!

Farrier Level 3 Apprenticeship

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Farrier Level 3 Apprenticeship

Farrier Level 3 Apprenticeship

Do you have a passion for working with horses and caring for their well-being? If so, a level 3 Farrier apprenticeship could be a good option for you and open up the possibility of a new career path. Read on to find out more.

Summary of the standard:

As part of their holistic approach to the equine, farriers are in charge of maintaining and caring for the feet of the animals. To do this, they must have a deep understanding of all facets of equine hoof care across all equine disciplines, from basic pleasure horses to top-level competition horses. Farriers can evaluate the gait of horses (movement). Farriers must be capable of speaking with owners and other experts, notably veterinarians, about the state of horses and their hooves. They are also accountable for the quality and correctness of their work. The alternatives for equine wellbeing that farriers can advise on range from basic corrective work on lame horses to trimming a horse while it is in the pasture. The practice of Farriery is thoroughly regulated, and all farriers must pass the Diploma of the Worshipful Company of Farriers (DipWCF) exam in order to be listed on the Register of Qualified Farriers and engage in legal business. Once certified, you have a choice to operate independently or join a Farriery practice to work in a team.

Entry requirements:

To complete this standard, there are some requirements that must be met which have been listed below. It is important to be aware that employers may set out their own specific requirements alongside these.

  • Minimum of 5 GCSE’s at Grace C or above, including English, Maths and one Science.
  • Apprentices without English and Maths Level 2 will be required to complete this before taking the end point assessment on (EPA).

Duration:

This apprenticeship typically takes 48 months to complete because it gives apprentices enough time to develop the necessary skills and knowledge needed to achieve the Worshipful Company of Farriers Diploma qualification (DipWCF). This qualification is important as it is the minimum standard needed to be completed to ensure apprentices understand the duty of care they have as a farrier to meet equine welfare standards as required under the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975.

What you will do:

Farrier cutting away extra hoof growth – Image Credit: Planit Plus

As a farrier, your responsibilities could be slightly different depending on your employer but generally, you will be responsible for the below:

  • Check horse’s legs, feet and hooves for any issues
  • Liaise with horse owners about what work is required from you to best assist them
  • Cut away any extra hoof growth and make sure the horse is comfortable and balanced
  • Choose appropriate shoes for horses based on their size, foot condition and types of activity they are involved in
  • Make horseshoes by hand or using an appropriate machine
  • Shape shoes using a hammer and anvil and then fit them onto the horses

Skills and knowledge you will need:

As part of this apprenticeship, you will develop new skills and knowledge which will be key to your success as a Farrier however, we have listed below some you will already need to hold to complete this apprenticeship.

  • Attention to detail
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to work well on your feet and with your hands
  • Customer service skills
  • Thinking and reasoning skills
  • Ability to operate and control equipment whilst adhering to rules / best practice
  • Ability to work well and remain calm under pressure
  • Basic computer literacy
  • Adherence to legal and ethical frameworks

Professional Qualifications

This standard is acknowledged by the Farriers Registration Council (FRC), which registers and regulates all qualified farriers, including ATFs. It is also recognised by the Worshipful Company of Farriers, which is in charge of farriery standards of competence in the industry under the Farriers (Registration) Act of 1975. The Farriers (Registration) Act of 1975’s mandated examination for registration called the Diploma of the Worshipful Company of Farriers (DipWCF), must be passed by apprentices to finish their apprenticeship. The apprentice will be able to use the post-nominal DipWCF and may submit an application for registration with the FRC after successfully receiving the DipWCF qualification.

Conclusion:

Overall, the level 3 Farrier apprenticeship is a great starting point for anyone looking to pursue a career with horses. The skills you will pick up through this standard will set you up well to be able to take higher level qualifications, for example a Diploma in Higher Education or a degree in Farriery. You may be able to work with larger stables, horse breeders, vets or even equine hospitals. There is even a possibility for you to become self-employed in the future after picking up these skills and freelancing. There are endless opportunities which can be opened up after this apprenticeship which makes it an ideal standard for anyone with a passion to work with horses.

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Exploring agricultural apprenticeships: level 2 poultry worker

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Brown chickens in a green field, used as a header image for the article.

Are you curious about a career in the agricultural industry? Working alongside animals in a hands-on role is a dream for many, and with apprenticeships it’s very much achievable. Here, we’ll explore the level 2 poultry worker apprenticeship and break down the requirements and responsibilities involved. 

Key duties and responsibilities of a poultry worker apprentice

The agricultural sector provides a wealth of different roles, ideal for those with a passion for food production or work involving animals. Before we take a deeper look at poultry worker apprenticeships, let’s start by finding out what a poultry worker does. Within a poultry worker career, you’ll be heavily involved in health checks, egg collection, animal feeding and much more. Your key role as a poultry worker is to raise the birds with optimal welfare, taking all their needs into consideration. Essentially, the focal point of a poultry worker apprenticeship is farming birds for their eggs or meat. 

While it’s possible to snag this role through means of study, experience and job hunting, an apprenticeship is an incredible way to get into the industry. With this agricultural apprenticeship, you’ll have the chance to pick up experience and knowledge while earning a salary at the same time.

Jobs and entry criteria for the level 2 poultry worker apprenticeship

By undertaking this apprenticeship, you’ll be gaining the skills and knowledge to start pursuing a poultry worker career in the agricultural industry. This is a technically advanced sector, with opportunities across both small family farms as well as large integrated organisations. Once your apprenticeship is completed, you’ll be able to move onto a higher technical role within the poultry industry. 

Already sounding like a dream opportunity? Not to worry, these apprenticeships are fairly accessible and aim to provide opportunities to people from all walks of life. In order to secure a poultry worker apprenticeship, you’ll need to be passionate about the industry and keen to progress within your role. As it’s a level 2 apprenticeship, there aren’t any formal requirements for this role, but this could change depending on the employer. You will, however, have to achieve a level 1 English and Maths qualification before the end point assessment if you don’t already have this. You’ll also have to take a test for level 2 English and Maths during your apprenticeship. 

How does the poultry worker apprenticeship work? 

If you’re new to apprenticeships, you may not be familiar with their structure and what you should expect from them. Let’s explore how poultry worker apprenticeships work and discover what you’ll be learning as part of this apprenticeship. 

Structure of the poultry worker apprenticeship

As is the case with apprenticeships, this programme is a combination of hands-on experience alongside study, finished off with an end point assessment. You can expect this apprenticeship to last anywhere between 12-18 months, after which you’ll be able to utilise your experience and progress onto a higher technical role. 

Apprentices will also have to provide a portfolio showcasing their progress throughout the apprenticeship, which can include illustrations, written summaries, and reports. To find out more about the assessment, check out the official assessment plan.  The EQA provider for this particular apprenticeship is Ofqual. 

If you’re unfamiliar with apprenticeship structures, you may also be unfamiliar with the levels system that they are presented as. The level of apprenticeship will determine the difficulty and pinpoint which educational level the apprenticeship is equal to. The poultry worker apprenticeship standard is set at level 2, which is considered an intermediate position and equal to a GCSE level. 

The poultry worker apprenticeship follows a ‘core and options’ approach, meaning you’ll have to complete apprentice work based on core knowledge and choose an option to focus on alongside it. In this instance, the core knowledge encompasses generic bird care. If you have a keen interest in a specific aspect of poultry farming, you may be able to opt for your focal area to be that. The available options you can expect to see are as follows: 

  • Breeding
  • Egg production
  • Grow out
  • Hatching
  • Rearing

Poultry worker knowledge modules 

In relation to the aforementioned core section of this apprenticeship, poultry workers need to have knowledge of these core areas: 

  • Types of poultry breed and species, including characteristics, behaviours, production cycle and general welfare requirements.
  • Diet and water requirements based on the species and age or life stage of the animal. 
  • Health and welfare issues and how to mitigate them as well as how to identify them. 
  • Appropriate environmental conditions for the species and life cycle of each animal.
  • Relevant technology and how to use it appropriately. 

For a full list of which areas of knowledge you’ll be assessed on during your end point assessment, read through the end point assessment plan outlined by the Institute for Apprenticeships.

Level 2 poultry worker core competencies

Alongside the host of knowledge you should gain throughout your apprenticeship, there is a set list of both skills and behaviours that you’ll need before you can go through your end point assessment. The core skills you need to possess include:

  • Implementing biosecurity procedures – a vital component to any animal based role. 
  • Following correct hygiene and food safety procedures, including safe entry and exit of the site. 
  • Strong people skills – the ability to communicate effectively and work as a team is an essential skill within this role.
  • Complying with the necessary legislation and guidelines such as the 5 freedoms. 

Now, let’s take a look at the behaviours you’ll be expected to exhibit as a poultry worker apprentice:

  • Exhibiting a strong work ethic through attitude and diligence.
  • Taking responsibility and ownership within your role, especially when it comes to animal welfare aspects. 
  • Displaying challenge and determination, including a willingness to do additional work and providing consistent results. 
  • Showing respect for others, assisting colleagues and sharing information within the team. 

As with the knowledge outline, you can find further information on the skills and behaviours within the end point assessment plan. 

Conclusion

The role of a poultry worker is certainly unique – with a pathway available to provide a fulfilling career to those interested. With agricultural and animal care roles often hard to break into, this is the perfect way to get started in the fast paced and rewarding agricultural industry. 
If this particular apprenticeship doesn’t feel like the perfect fit, why not have a read through our previous articles to find one that suits you? Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with the world of apprenticeships.