Training & Education in the Rural Sector

Rural Vocational Training

The key qualification for vocational training is the NVQ (National Vocational Qualification). NVQ levels 1 to 5 take an individual from a basic entrance level up to managerial level. You can study for these at a range of colleges and other training organisations. Some courses will involve a mix of classroom and work-based activities.

To search for further education and short courses, click hotcourses.com . To learn more about careers and training in land-based and environmental work, try www.ajobin.com or www.afuturein.com . Colleges that specialise in land based and related subjects are listed by Landex (The Association for Land-based Colleges) .

There may also be a number of training providers in your area. Sources of information may include your local skills centre or Job-Centre Plus

Higher education

To find degree level courses, visit the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) web site and search by subject area. To find more information about Universities and Colleges in NationalRural that offer degree level courses relating to the rural industries, click here . If you are looking for postgraduate courses and qualifications, look at prospects.ac.uk

Foundation Degrees

Foundation Degrees are higher education level qualifications combining academic and work-based learning and are designed in partnership with employers. A directory of Foundation Degrees ordered by subject area (including ‘Agriculture and land-based studies) can be found at the Foundation Degrees Forward web site .

Sector Skills Councils

Sector Skills Councils, licensed by Government, are employer-led independent organisations. Sector Skills Councils relating to the rural economy include Lantra (for environmental and land based industries), Improve Ltd (Food & Drink manufacturing and processing), and People 1st (Hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism).