Entry Requirements:
Students, who have successfully completed the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture, or equivalent course, are eligible to apply. Applicants with relevant prior learning and/or life experience will also be considered.
Duration: 12 months
Online applications now open - apply here now
This programme is validated by QQI and on successful completion leads to the following:
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Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation)
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The graduate qualifies as a Young Trained Farmer
Applications are made online to Teagasc
Progression is available through the Higher Education Links Scheme or through advanced entry. Please contact the relevant higher education institute for further information.
Maintenance Grant: Apply to Teagasc for a Teagasc Maintenance Grant
machinery students working on their projects
Course Content
•Practical experience working on modern tractors and machinery
•Workshop skills, Welding Arc & MIG, Gas cutting
•Engine Overhauls
•Brakes & Hydraulics
•Vehicle Electrics
•Major Project
•Machinery operation and setup
•16 weeks work experience and the manufacture of a major project are a core element of the course
Testimonial:
Student: Shane Ward, Birdhill, Co Tipperary
I did the course because of my great interest in machinery and I also wanted to get a qualification in agriculture for farming purposes. We run a machinery business at home so I was naturally drawn to learning more about their operation and maintenance.
The course has a good balance of theory and practical, for example you could spend the morning welding and the evening learning about the forage harvester. The group sizes were small so when it came to the practicals there was always loads to do and plenty of time to practice new skills.
For my project I bought a Ford 7840 which needed an engine recondition and a lot of work to the front axle. I found this mechanic work very beneficial and I now use the skills I learned doing up this tractor every day. The college staff were very helpful and knowledgeable, also my fellow classmates gave me a great hand. Doing a project like this is a great way of learning
I did my Practical Learning Period on the harvest with CWDC harvesting in New Mexico, America. I loved it and would go back some day if I can, it was some experience and I made great friends.
Since leaving college I have taken over the family business Ward & Ward Haulage and Contracting we have a 10 tipper trucks on the road along with loading shovels and track machines. I do the maintenance on all these machines. We hope to get into more quarry type work in the future.