About the course
The Level 1 Diploma provides an introduction into agriculture, with a focus on the care, health and management of livestock and crops and an introduction to machinery operations. The aim of the course is to develop the basic practical skills that are required on a farm this will be through a series of practical and written assessments. This is a popular course with school leavers who have an interest in the outdoors. .
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Course length: One Year (35 weeks)
Start date: September 2025
Interested in taking this course? Click here to apply for this course online
Course Modules
Assist with establishment of plants and sites in the countryside
Assist with the care of animals
Assist with the maintenance of structures and surfaces in the countryside
Carry out tractor operations
Introduction to wildlife and conservation
Preparing to work in the land-based industries
Safe and effective working practices in land-based industries
Entry requirements & additional information
Students must have 3 GCSE’s Grade 1 -2 including English or Maths or equivalent Entry Level 3 Qualification along with a keen interest in the subject. Some practical knowledge of agriculture is desirable.
Assessment of technical qualifications is a mixture of practical assessment of skills and written assignments marked internally by the teaching team, together with externally marked examinations that combine the knowledge of all mandatory units. The assessments and exams are spread throughout the course of the year.
Students who successfully complete the course may wish to study full time at Myerscough. Students may also enter an apprenticeship through college.
Protective clothing should include a boiler suit, work gloves, waterproof coat, waterproof trousers and sensible outdoor footwear. Steel toe capped boot/wellingtons. Tetanus vaccination up to date. Costs that are mandatory for the course: Steel toe-capped boots or wellington boots – approx. £25 Protective overalls – approx. £25 Waterproof coat and leggings – approx. £50 Hi visibility bib-approx. £10 Costs that are optional for the course: There may be opportunity to go on daytrips to shows and farms.
Endless opportunities and Fantastic Resources
Students often get the chance to undertake work experience during their studies.
In the past, students have gone to New Zealand or Australia to do sheep and dairy work, with others heading west to Canada and the United States. Such experiences not only help students develop their knowledge and skills but they also prove valuable in terms of improving future employment prospects.
The Myerscough College estate features a dedicated four hectare conservation area and countryside management zone as well as a purpose built Rural Skills Centre which houses our countryside courses. With game bird hatching facilities, an armoury, machinery and estate management workshops, and an off-road driving course - we've everything you need!
Alumni – Oliver McEntyre
To anyone looking to study Agriculture or Countryside at Myerscough College, I’d say go, embrace it & leave with the knowledge that the qualification will stay with you for the rest of your career and open doors that might not have been opened without the time and experience Myerscough offers.