Join our FREE* Farm Training Programme - Introduction to Rural Skills - Agriculture

There is a lot more to farming than shearing sheep and milking cows. Join other trainees in studying towards a National Qualification with on-job training and jobs waiting for you.

Agriculture New Zealand training courses are a great place to begin your career in agriculture. Our qualified Course Supervisors and Tutors provide a supportive learning environment to ensure your individual needs are met.

About the Course

Agriculture New Zealand’s Rural Skills programme runs for one year and offers students the opportunity to gain skills in:

• ATV and Tractor Driving
• Fencing and Farm Maintenance
• Pastures and Weed Control
• Milk Production
• Livestock Handling
• Docking
• First Aid

This is our longest running programme with a proud history of success. The course has a large practical component with students spending 3-4 days per week on-farm and 1-2 days in the classroom or at practical tutorials working towards a National Certificate in Agriculture (Level 2/3). On completion of the course, you will be offered the opportunity to continue training with the Agriculture ITO working towards a higher National Certificate.

This programme is run nationally from our training sites in the following locations:

• Kumeu
• Pukekohe
• Hamilton
• Rotorua   
• Christchurch
• Invercargill

Aims of the programme are to:

• Provide students with a safe and supportive learning environment
• Raise self esteem and motivation to succeed
• Result in improved educational and life opportunities
• Help with future career prospects by introducing students to employers who can advance their farming career

Programme Structure

The course runs over 46 weeks with programmed recess breaks. A typical training day is from 8.30 am until 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday, which is spent on a suitable farm, developing your career through on-farm training. While in the classroom, you will be studying topics focusing on development of farm skills as outlined in the unit standards that make up the National Certificate in Agriculture (Level 2).

When Does the Course Start?

Places on the Introduction to Rural Skills course are available any time throughout the year with ongoing training opportunities if you gain employment.

The Rural Skills Course Supervisor works alongside the students, teaching them the necessary skills for a future in farming.  Agriculture New Zealand tutors deliver the class days. Literacy support is available if needed.

Course Equipment Required

Students need to have workboots and suitable clothing for wearing on the farm. Wet weather gear and gumboots will be provided when students are placed with a “Farm Sponsor”.

Student Testimonials

"It's taught me life skills, discipline and I've learnt a lot about farming, like driving tractors and ATVs, milking cows, pasture growth and putting up fences. Taught me lots." Chris (15 year old Youth Training Trainee)

"This course has opened up a total new career and lifestyle opportunity for me. It has taken me from State welfare to a salaried position. I've learnt to operate a chainsaw, tractor, ATV, repair fences, learnt about pasture production, identifying weeds and spraying, how to milk cows, rear calves, animal health, behaviour and reproduction, plus stock management. This has been a life changing course and I personally recommend it." Jude (30+ Training Opportunities Trainee)

Phone us for further info on 0800 4 SKILLS (0800 475 455) or email agnztraining@pggwrightson.co.nz

* Eligibility criteria applies.