Livestock Apprentice WEALD BARKFOLD FARM LTD

We are looking for an apprentice who is keen and willing to learn about all aspects of livestock (cattle). A strong interest in livestock is key and a hands on attitude is essential. We are a small team and this is a great opportunity for someone who wants to gain valuable experience and learn about rearing beef cattle from birth to finishing.

Sign in to apply

Closing date: 09 Oct 2023

Apprenticeship summary

  • Annual wage

    £10,296.00

    Pay will be reviewed during the apprenticeship.

    Wages explained

    Apprentices are paid for their normal working hours and training that's part of their apprenticeship (usually one day per week).

    Minimum Wage Rates

  • Working week

    Monday to Friday, 8am – 5pm Some weekend work during busy periods.

    Total hours per week: 37.5

  • Expected duration

    15 Months

  • Possible start date

    10 Oct 2023

  • Date posted

    25 Aug 2023

  • Apprenticeship level

    Advanced
    Level 3 (A level)

  • Reference number

    VAC1000191764

  • Positions

    1 available

What will the apprentice be doing?

The apprentice will be involved in a variety of tasks throughout the farm, but will focus mostly on:

  • Animal welfare and husbandry

  • Livestock handling ,calving.

  • Animal handling equipment and record keeping.

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

The apprentice will obtain the following qualifications:

  • Livestock Unit Technician L3 Apprenticeship Certificate
  • Level 2 in Principles of Safe Handling and Application of Pesticides Guidance
  • Level 2 in Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines
  • Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work

 

The apprentice will learn the following during the apprenticeship: 

  • Health and Safety processes and practices relevant to livestock management.
  • The digestive process of commonly farmed livestock.
  • The legal and operational aspects of livestock record keeping.
  • Breeding and production cycles for commonly farmed livestock.
  • The different types of technology and systems used in livestock production and how to use the most appropriate e.g robotic milking, EID tagging, GPS tracking legislation applicable to working with farm equipment.
  • How to prepare and implement health and welfare plans and schedules, identifying priorities, resources required and critical activities to achieve desired KPI’s.
  • Plan, implement, monitor and review health and safety of self, others and livestock; including risk assessments and biosecurity policy.
  • How to establish current health status of stock, to prepare livestock health & welfare plan.
  • The different types of grasses, forage crops and bought in feed used to support livestock nutrition and how to assess and manage them for optimum performance.
  • Implement breeding plan, monitor and manage the physical condition and check that selected stock are in the correct condition for breeding.
  • Welfare requirements of livestock in accommodation at different stages of production cycle and how they can be achieved, including management of manure.
  • The market factors such as price, supply chain requirements, new legislation and relevant industry welfare codes, and the impact these have on the business.
  • Prepare, maintain and operate farm vehicles, and attachments, in different environmental and ground conditions.
  • Select and prepare livestock for sale or transfer in accordance with health and safety requirements.
  • Manage, monitor and evaluate the financial viability of delivered diets, using relevant resources.
  • Maintain, analyse and utilize production records (both written and digital) to improve productivity and aid compliance the importance and practice of safely and effectively selecting and preparing livestock for sale or transfer the five welfare needs of animals.
  • Impact of farm working practices on social, economic and environmental sustainability, including a basic understanding of how to contribute to government-led sustainability targets.

Delivery Model
Regular learning, skills and knowledge assessment and research work at Plumpton College alongside blended online learning. Attendance at college on a fortnightly basis (term time only) with quarterly workplace competency and efficiency observation, assessments and reviews.

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

The apprentice would be able to develop further within the company and progress. Additionally, their qualification can see them develop in the livestock sector. 

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Logical, Team working, Initiative, Physical fitness

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English (Grade 4) Desired
GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade 4) Desired

Things to consider

As this is a rural position, own transport is advised.

About the employer

We are a family run farm. The farm is 400 acres, with permanent grassland, silage and the hay production is undertaken ourselves for winter feed. Our farm has 80 Belgium Blue X beef cows, 2 pedigree Aberdeen Angus bulls. Calves are reared and finished from the farm.

Employer

WEALD BARKFOLD FARM LTD

Address

WEALD BARKFOLD FARM

PLAISTOW

BILLINGSHURST

RH14 0PJ

You must have JavaScript enabled to view a map of the location

Training

Training provider

PLUMPTON COLLEGE

Apprenticeship standard

Livestock unit technician

Level 3 (A level)

Before you apply

Before you apply for an apprenticeship you must first create an account. If you already have an account you'll need to sign in.