Agriculture 

Taught at RGS

Details of the Examination Specification

Agriculture SQA GG00 46 

What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? 

The SQA National Certificate for Agriculture is equivalent to one GCE A-Level. It has been developed to provide entry and progression into and within the animal and plant production and land management industries that fall within the environmental and land-based sector. Students studying Agriculture will focus on the theory, as well as gaining practical experience with crops production, livestock and habitat management. You do not necessarily need to have any agricultural experience however you should have a GCSE in science, be enthusiastic, committed to completing both the theory and practical tasks, and be able to work with other students as well various people within the industry.

What will I learn on this course? 

Students studying Agriculture will focus on the theory as well as gaining practical experience with crops, livestock and habitat management. You will develop various practical skills ranging from preparing soil and cultivating crops, to helping with lambing and farrowing, building and maintaining fencing and habitats.

You will also develop your organisational skills as these are essential to ensuring you submit high quality assignments that have not been rushed.

What kind of student is this course suitable for? 

This course is definitely suited to anybody who has or is seeking agricultural experience, while still combining it with other studies. Agriculture is also particularly suited to students who enjoy a challenge and aren't afraid to try something new. Students who wish to go on to a horticultural or animal care career would also benefit this course.

What examinations will I have to take to get my qualification? 

This is a coursework only subject; there are no external exams involved. You will be continually assessed throughout the course.  Assignments set are written and practical in nature, with some aspects being assessed by short internal tests.

This course requires a student to complete 12 units over a 2-year period.

The course is designed to be adaptable to your interests, abilities and aspirations: it consists of 6 compulsory core units, plus

6 units from a range of specialist units

Core Units 

Livestock Husbandry, Health and Welfare 

Combinable Crop Production 

Tractor Operations and Attachments 

Farm Maintenance Skills 

Soils and Soil Fertility 

Grassland Production 

Option 1 Units (6 Units needed) 

Livestock Reproductive and Digestive Systems 

Sheep Production 

Pig Production 

Agriculture : Environmental Awareness 

Plus 2 from the following:

Poultry Production 

Milking 

Calf Rearing Systems 

Dairy Production 

Beef and Suckled Calf Production 

Sheep Shearing 

Tractor Driving 

Students can also opt to take additional units, or substitute optional ones with another, to take into account their own personal interests or future career aspirations 

Skills developed:

•  Independence

•  Desire to try new things

•  Not be afraid of some muck/"farm" smells

•  Administrative/organisational skills

•  Teamwork

Likely next step opportunities:

•  Higher Education for degree courses in Agriculture, Horticulture, Livestock Husbandry or using the points for other subjects

•  Specialist vocational courses

Assessment summary:

Internal assessment throughout duration of the course.

Portfolio work for each Unit.