Agriculture

The Level 2 General Farm Worker and Level 3 Livestock Unit Technician apprenticeship standards are designed to develop foundational skills, knowledge, and behaviours within the agricultural sector. Apprentices attend sessions every two weeks at delivery sites across Lancashire, Cumbria, and Northumberland.

Current delivery locations include the Food, Farming Innovation & Technology Centre at Myerscough College, Penrith Auction, Carlisle Auction, and Hexham Auction Marts, offering diverse learning experiences and opportunities to engage directly with the agricultural industry. Apprentices also receive work-based tutor visits every 8–10 weeks for progress reviews and to support key workplace learning.

The Level 4 Assistant Farm Manager apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who support the management and operation of agricultural businesses. Delivered in collaboration with key employers and industry experts, this programme provides apprentices with the advanced management knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for leadership roles in agriculture.

Arboriculture

The Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship is central to developing the foundational skills, knowledge, and behaviours required in the arboricultural sector. Apprentices attend monthly sessions at either the Preston Campus or in Penrith for underpinning knowledge delivery, with practical competency qualifications delivered at specialist sites.

Apprentices are also supported by a dedicated progress coach, who conducts reviews every 8–10 weeks to monitor progress and support workplace learning.

Forestry

Myerscough College launched the Level 3 Forest Craftsperson Apprenticeship in October 2025. Delivered over a 22-month period to gateway, this programme equips apprentices with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours for a successful career in forestry.

Apprentices follow either the harvesting or establishment route, with core components taught collectively to encourage collaboration and shared learning. Specialist sessions provide targeted development in each pathway.

The curriculum has been co-designed with leading industry partners including the University of Cumbria, CONFOR, the National Trust, AW Jenkinson, and the Forestry Commission, ensuring alignment with current industry standards and practices.

The programme begins with a two-day induction at the University of Cumbria in Ambleside, focusing on health and safety and onboarding. Monthly sessions are held at rotating venues including the University of Cumbria, Forest Estates, and other industry sites. Key competency qualifications are delivered via block attendance.

Apprentices benefit from a robust virtual learning environment and the ONEFILE portfolio system, providing access to resources that support continuous development and ensure all knowledge, skills, and behaviours are fully mapped.