Teagasc will roll out three new agricultural apprenticeships this year. The news was announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue. He added that the provision of agricultural internships in the agri-food sector “is a matter for individual companies to consider”.
There are currently 17 agricultural courses available by Teagasc across 25 training locations. These comprise seven agricultural colleges and 17 regional education locations.
The apprenticeships are in various stages of development with the Higher Education Authority (HEA), Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and the state training and education agency, SOLAS. Progress has been made in developing the programmes.
Agricultural apprenticeships include:
– Sportsturf Technician (Higher Level 6) – 2 years
– Horticulturist (Higher Level 6) – 2 years
– Assistant Stud Manager (Ordinary Degree Level 7) – 3 years
– Farm Technician (Higher Level 6) – 2 years
– Farm Manager (Ordinary Degree Level 7) – 2 years
According to the Minister, all Teagasc courses and its proposed apprenticeships are open to applications from both EU and non-EU students.
He went on to say that, “It is intended that three of the new apprenticeships will be rolled out this year. Apprentices will be employed by approved employers and will compete the classroom element with Teagasc.”
The government’s Food Vision 2030 strategy has placed high value on attracting and nurturing diverse and inclusive talent across the agri-food sector.