Course overview
The Level 3 T Level in Agriculture (Livestock Production) is a two year qualification designed to prepare students for employment, apprenticeships or further study within the agricultural industry, with a focus on livestock production systems. This is a full-time course; you will spend 4 days a week at college and 1 day a week on your industry placement.
The course consists of two main components. The Common Core develops essential industry knowledge, including business and commercial understanding, sustainability, legislation, ethical principles, health and safety and safe working practices, and is assessed through two written examinations.
Learners also complete the Occupational Specialism in Livestock Production, developing technical knowledge and practical skills in livestock management, welfare and productivity.
In your first year, you’ll focus primarily on the common core content. In your second year, the emphasis shifts to your occupational specialism. Your core will be assessed in Year 1, and your occupational specialism will be assessed in Year 2.
Learning is delivered through a combination of theory and practical sessions using our dual purpose onsite farm, including the dairy unit, sheep flock, arable areas and workshops. Students also complete a compulsory 315 hour employer led industry placement on a livestock farm.
Entry Requirements
• 4 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, which include English and Maths. We will consider progression from the successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification achieved at Merit and English and Maths at Grade 4 or above.
• Some farming experience before commencing the course is essential, as is the ability to cope with written work. An employer-led industry placement of at least 315 hours will need to be completed across the qualification. This placement must be on a livestock farm.
Course Structure
Course Description
The course is divided into the following key areas:
• Core (exam & project): Covers the core theory, concepts, and skills needed in all agricultural sectors, including health and safety, sustainability, ethics, business, communication, finance, equality, and relationship management.
• Pathway (exam & project): Biosecurity, Supply Chain, Anatomy & Physiology, Diseases & Health Plans, Nutrition, Medicines, Technology, Data Handling
• Specialism (practical & report writing): Focuses on livestock production, giving you specialist knowledge and practical skills in breeding, rearing, managing, and optimising livestock, while maintaining safe and effective working environments.
Progression
• Employment opportunities could see you working as a Herdsperson/Shepherd/Dairyman, Agricultural contractor, Assistant poultry unit manager, Agricultural technician, Dairy worker, Lecturer in agriculture, Estate maintenance, Dairy manager or being involved in Agricultural sales.
• Employment prospects for qualified and experienced young people with the right attitude are excellent as the industry is experiencing a skills shortage and many learners gain employment through or at their work experience placements.