sparsholt fe 2014 prospectus

Full-time Further Education

COURSE GUIDE 2014

CONTENTS

Open events 2

Celebrating Achievement 4

Taster Days 6

Helping you succeed 7

Fees and financial support 9 | 156

Mature Students 10

International students 11

Being a Sparsholt student 12

Choosing the right course 14

Qualifications explained 15

Applying to College 17

Apprenticeships 18

Courses at Sparsholt College 22

The College Charter 159

Useful telephone numbers 159

Index 160

Application form inside back cover

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Sparsholt College Hampshire

WELCOMEFull-time Further Education Course Guide 2014

We appreciate that the choices you make for the next few years will have a big impact on your future career and aspirations, so we hope you find the information in our course guide helpful.

Sparsholt College is proud to be the Specialist College, recognised locally, regionally and nationally for providing outstanding specialised Further and Higher Education in land and environment, sports academies and sustainable technology. We focus on student success and progression to Higher Education and employment.

The support our students receive, both residential and non-residential, is second to none. This is demonstrated by a recent Ofsted inspection where we were awarded ‘Outstanding’ for the second inspection running.

We are renowned nationally for our facilities across the college from the Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre in Fishery Studies to the BBC “Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time” Garden in Horticulture Studies. These kinds of facilities allow our students to gain real and relevant industry experience to prepare them for the next step into higher education or employment.

We look forward to welcoming you to Sparsholt College.

Tim Jackson, Principal

Our Mission To inspire learners to recognise and achieve their full potential.

Our Beliefs and Values Excellence | Innovation | Integrity | Passion | Supportiveness

Sustainability | Team Work | Valuing Others

“The overall effectiveness of provision is good. The college is well led and Senior Managers and Governors have a clear strategic vision.”

Ofsted Inspection 2008

01962 7764411w w w.sparsholt .ac.uk

OPEN DAYS

Come and see the College for yourself and get all the information you need from our expert team. Discuss your options – understand the qualifications and see the amazing facilities, equipment, teaching areas and accommodation at your disposal. Come and see us early and secure your place for 2014.

Saturday 5 October 201310.00am to 3.00pm

Saturday 16 November 2013*10.00am to 3.00pm

Saturday 18 January 201410.00am to 3.00pm

Saturday 8 March 201410.00am to 3.00pm

Thursday 26 June 20144.00pm to 7.00pm

*Isle of Wight residents – please note for 16 November, a free bus to the College will meet the Red Jet Service at the Southampton Terminal. Call 01962 797562 for details


COUNTRYSIDE DAYSaturday 17 May 2014,

9.30am - 5.00pm

A really great day out for all the family! Explore the college campus, see our staff and students at work and gain first-hand experience of the countryside and how

you can make your dreams a career.

As well as the farm, stables, Animal Management Centre, Aquatics Centre and Horticulture gardens, there will be dog agility and gun dog displays, falconry

displays, sheep racing and much more!

See the website www.sparsholt.ac.uk for the latest on this event.

Sorry – no visitors’ dogs. We have a large number of sensitive animals all around the site.

NB. Admission charges apply for this event


CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT

Isaac Nehemie starred for the Football Academy and has now signed for Southampton FC on a two year

scholarship. This will enable Isaac to continue his quest to become a professional footballer and also to

continue the education he began here at Sparsholt.

Employment SuccessSparsholt prides itself on preparing our students for progression into employment in their chosen field. Throughout the prospectus you will see numerous student profiles from ex-Sparsholt students who have completed their course and have progressed successfully into employment.

We have students who have gone on to work in a range of roles such as:

• Seasonal Ranger with the National Trust

• Arborist / Tree Surgeon’s Assistant with John Hawkins Forestry and Fencing

• Assistant Grazing Officer with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

• Trooper in Blues and Royals, Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

• Registered Veterinary Nurse at a renowned referrals practice in Guildford

• Digital Editor at Carpology magazine

• Manager at a Polo Yard in Perth, Australia

• Trainee Keeper at Marwell Wildlife

• Youth Player at Southampton Saints Football Club

Sparsholt Success

• 100% achievement in Horticulture, Fish and Arboriculture

• 99% achievement in Equine

• 98% achievement in Animal Management and Agriculture

• 90% achievement in Game

• 100% achievement in Motor Vehicle

• 90% achievement in Sport

• 90% achievement in Conservation and Countryside Management


University Progression Many of our students choose to continue their studies with us as we offer a range of full and part-time BSc and FdSc courses which are accredited by the University of Portsmouth.

We run programmes in:

• Animal Management and Veterinary Health

• Ecology and Conservation

• Equine Studies and Science

• Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Studies

• Garden Design

• Woodland Conservation

From September 2014 we will also be running MSc programmes in Equine Behaviour Performance and Training and Applied Aquaculture and Sports Fisheries.


TASTER DAYS

Taster Days are your chance to experience a real college day and to answer any questions you might have. Will I like Sparsholt? What are the Lecturers like? What kinds of things will we be learning? Is this really the area I want to work in?

For Years 10 and 11 we provide “try it and see” Taster Days during school holidays, the dates for 2014/15 are:

Agriculture Monday 28th October 2013 | Monday 17th February 2014 | Thursday 27th March 2014

Animal Management Monday 28th October 2013 | Tuesday 29th October 2013 | Monday 7th April 2014

Tuesday 8th April 2014 | Monday 9th June 2014 | Tuesday 10th June 2014

Arboriculture and ForestryMonday 28th October 2013 | Thursday 27th March 2014

Conservation and CountrysideMonday 28th October 2013 | Monday 24th March 2014

EquineTuesday 29th October 2013 | Thursday 20th February 2014 | Friday 21st February 2014

Thursday 5th June 2014 | Friday 6th June 2014

Fishery Studies Monday 28th October 2013 | Wednesday 5th February 2014 | Wednesday 5th March 2014

GamekeepingMonday 28th October 2013 | Wednesday 19th February 2014 | Friday 28th March 2014

HorticultureTuesday 29th October 2013 | Thursday 27th March 2014

Motor Vehicle and Engineering

Friday 21st March 2014 | Monday 9th June 2014

Sport and Outdoor Education Bespoke sessions arranged on demand.

You will find a booking form at the back of this prospectus or for further details, please call 01962 797213.


HELPING YOU SUCCEED

Learning Support

If you feel that you need extra help with your course from time to time we have dedicated specialists onsite to work with your during your time at college.

You may need support in understanding your work, writing assignments, spelling and grammar, structure and organisation, presentation and proof reading. Our learner support assistants liaise closely with your tutors and teachers to help you in working towards passing your qualifications.

Specialist support is also available if you have dyslexia, any other specific learning difficulty or a physical disability. Full assessments for specific learning difficulties, which may result in a recommendation for examination access arrangements, can be completed by our Dyslexia Support Team.

Library and Learning Resource Centre

You will have access to the Library and Learning Resource Centre which houses a collection of regularly updated specialist resources to support coursework and research.

You will also have access to a range of electronic resources, including use of student’s national and international inter-library loan services.

Experienced and friendly staff are always on hand to offer support and guidance and flexible arrangements are available to part-time learners (e.g. extended borrowing periods as appropriate, telephone renewals, etc).


Student SupportStudents at Sparsholt often comment on how supported they feel during their time at the college, both with their college work and personal life. Course Tutors are on hand for you to talk to if you want to discuss any difficulties you might be having during your time at college. If you wanted more confidential support, our Student Support Team can offer help with issues such has housing, relationships, finance, travel and health matters.

Residential Students

Approximately 400 students live on site, from the age of 16. These students are cared for by a friendly team of Wardens on duty 24 hours a day. To further strengthen our residential support team, we have appointed a dedicated youth worker. This role will provide one-to-one support for those who need it most and group activities to help our residents improve their personal and social skills.

Most of the 400 rooms have en-suite toilet and shower facilities, and offer wifi internet access for wireless-enabled computers.

Ofsted has judged the Colleges service

and support for residential students to be

“Outstanding”.

Residential Bursaries, to help towards accommodation costs are available to eligible students who live too far to travel daily and do not live on a college travel route. Please check with the Student Finance Team.

Transport

Students will have the opportunity to buy atrain pass from Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton, and Basingstoke. The cost of the pass includes a No. 7 Stagecoach bus pass for travel between the college and Winchester train station.

Sparsholt provides Campus Direct buses with routes all over Hampshire and the county borders. This service comes directly into the College campus every day. Bus stop pick-up and drop off times are available from the College.

Prices vary between £480 and £780 depending on distance, for an annual pass. Passes can be paid for over ten monthly instalments at no extra cost.

There is parking available onsite if you choose to travel by car or bike.


FEES AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Fees Under 19s

UK and EEA (subject to residency requirements) students do not pay tuition fees or examination fees for government funded further education courses, as long as they are under 19 years of age on 31st August in the year they start their course.

19 and Over

If you are over 19, you will normally need to pay for exams, registration and tuition fees. However, you may be eligible for free tuition depending on the course you wish to study, the qualifications you already have and your financial circumstances. Students aged 24 or over, studying a level 3 or 4 course can apply for a loan to cover the cost of tuition. Please contact Student Finance for more information on 01962 797267.

Refunds In normal circumstances, if a student withdraws from their course prior to completion of that course, there will be no refund of any fee. If payment is made by instalments, any outstanding amounts will continue to be taken.

For more information about the financial support available to students, please see page 156

Figures indicated are correct at time of publication (September 2013) and may be subject to later changes.

Extra Curricular Activities Fee – All Students All students – whether they pay their tuition and examination fees or not – are required to pay the Extra Curricular Activities fee (£70 in 2013/14, Outdoor Adventure students are required to pay a higher fee of £350 due to the nature of the activities.) This contributes towards the provision of the many extra-curricular activities offered by the College.


Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

Make your experience count towards a

qualification as part of an approved course or

training programme.

Experience you have gained in the workplace,

through qualifications you already hold, or even

through a hobby, could give you exemption

from part of a course – potentially saving you

time and possibly making you eligible for study

at a higher level than anticipated.

If you feel this could apply to you and you

would like to apply for this accreditation,

you will need to discuss your experience and

qualifications with a tutor at your interview.

24+ Bursary Fund

Learners who are 24+ and studying a level 3 or above can access the 24+ College Bursary fund as long as they have taken out a tuition fee loan. This bursary is means tested and can help with Accommodation, Exam/registration fees, travel, books and equipment and Childcare costs.

Mature StudentsConsidering a return to study?

Due to the nature of the specialist courses offered at Sparsholt, a significant proportion of our students are mature students choosing to return to learning.

For some people the attraction may be a change of career or lifestyle, for others a higher qualification or improved job prospects, and many study for their own personal satisfaction.

Whatever your circumstances, you can be sure you will not be alone.

If you are considering a return to learning, you may want to join us at a seminar held as part of the Course Information Open Day on Saturday 8 March 2014.

The seminar will cover:

• The prospects of success for mature students. Such students tend to show similar course interests and usually find a significant number of other mature students on the same course.

• Provide discussion of the full-time and part-time options, the costs and the appropriate levels of study

• Demonstrate the general facilities and also the specialised practical resources used to support the course programmes


International studentsSpecialist knowledge from a British college can bring a new perspective, transferable skills and carries authority on your résumé.

Sparsholt College has been providing on-site accommodation for students throughout its history and at our last inspection we were judged to be providing ‘Outstanding’ support for our residential students. Our experience means that we can offer a smooth and friendly welcome to residential students from any part of the world.

Students are welcome to live on site from the start of the academic year in September to the end of the academic year in June. The only time you will be asked to vacate accommodation is during the Christmas break, when the College closes completely and at Easter. Students are usually requested to clear their rooms at Easter, however for international students alternative storage on the College campus will be provided.

If you have not lived in the UK, EU or EEA for three years you will need to pay tuition fees at the overseas rate and also apply for a student visa. For full details on overseas fees, advice about which courses you can study, and how to apply for a visa, email [email protected].

Sparsholt College Hampshire is on the UK government’s Register of Education and Training Providers. The Sponsor Licence Number (SLN) on this register is G0J84DCF3.

Equality and Diversity Sparsholt College is committed to ensuring that the College community, including those with learning difficulties, are treated fairly. The College will assess individual learner needs based on curriculum requirements and wherever possible, make reasonable adjustments to enable students to study at the College and succeed on their course.

If you would like further guidance please contact the Additional Learning Support Co-ordinator on 01962 797211.

We may invite you to take part in additional support assessments, for example a risk assessment, an occupational health assessment, an educational psychologist assessment or a specialist learning support assessment. All these are specific assessments to identify any additional support and/or resources needed to enable you to access the curriculum and succeed on your course.

The College Disability Equality Scheme is available on the College website – www.sparsholt.ac.uk.


COLLEGE LIFE

Sparsholt students have described having a feeling of ‘belonging’ when at Sparsholt as they are mixing with likeminded people who have a real passion for their subject. An enjoyable college and social life translates into excellent results, so it’s a winning formula.

“Sparsholt helped me fit in straight away . . . it’s a very supportive place” Kurdy Collins


Social Spaces

It’s not all work at college – everyone needs some down time so our college restaurants are the perfect places to hang out between classes or after the college day for residential students.

Bytes is the main college dining room open for breakfast and lunch and MJs is open for delicious daytime snacks and evening meals. Fit Jyms Bar is available for speciality coffees, soft drinks, baguettes and snacks through the day Monday to Sunday with pub grub and alcohol (only for students aged 18 or over) in the evenings.

It’s not all work…

The College organises a wide range of events throughout the year for both residential and non-residential students. Past events range from the Freshers’ party, Christmas Ball, Rag Week, Summer Ball to regular charity fund raising events such as karaoke, foam parties, bar bingo, quizzes and pool or darts competitions.

Sports

Join the college Sport Maker, Nick, in a wide range of sports and physical activities such as badminton, Zumba, rounders and basketball.

The college has almost six hectares of sports fields for both rugby and football and we enter teams into the Hampshire Collegiate League.

New Sports Hall

Sparsholt College’s exciting sports centre, due to be completed in October 2013, will include a full size sports hall, an exercise studio with sprung floor, a fully equipped fitness suite and a purpose built state of the art climbing wall.

Need childcare?

Situated within the College grounds, Sparsholt Day Nursery provides a safe and creative environment with opportunities for children to visit the many exciting attractions on the campus.

Early booking is essential as the Nursery operates a waiting list.

For full details, visit www. sparsholt.ac.uk/daynursery, call us on 01962 776439 or email [email protected]


CHOOSING THE RIGHT COURSE

As with most of our students, if you’re looking to start a course with us you probably have a passion for your chosen field. However, if you’re unsure

about making the choice, here are a few things to consider:

What subjects interest you the most?

What are you naturally good at?

What course at university are you interested in?

What job or career are you aiming for?

What are your predicted grades?

What could the course lead onto (next level study, university, job, apprenticeship)?

Where to go for help and advice:

Talk to your careers and subject teachers at school

Talk to our schools liaison officer when she visits your school

Check out our courses and all other options on the internet

Visit college open days and talk to the tutors yourself

Discuss with your parents and friends.


QUALIFICATIONS EXPLAINED

Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Diplomas

Level 3 are two year qualifications which develop your detailed knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector. They help you to apply your learning to the world of work at a technical level, often leading onto management positions.

Extended Diplomas are broadly equivalent to three A Levels and provide an alternative route to degree courses and university level qualifications.

Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Diplomas are usually assessed by coursework. By completing each unit of work within the course, you will earn credits that build up to a level required for each qualification. The Level 3 Diploma will cover much of the same information as an Extended Diploma, but achieves fewer credits and are suited to students who are very practical in their learning style.

Recommended entry requirements:

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above for the Extended Diploma and four GCSEs at Grade C or above for the Level 3 Diploma; OR Level 2 Diploma at merit level; OR

Relevant Level 2 NVQ; OR Other equivalent qualification Other relevant practical or work experience may be acceptable for mature students.

Level 2 Diploma

The Level 2 Diploma is equivalent to achieving four GCSEs at grades A*-C. Typically a one year course, students may go on to employment or progress to the Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma.

Level 2 qualifications are ideal to build knowledge for jobs requiring a good level of basic skills. At this level, candidates who are school leavers would normally expect to go into supervised work. Higher level training will normally be required for jobs requiring greater responsibility. They can also be an attractive option for mature students who are seeking a career change and need an introduction to their industry of choice.

Recommended entry requirements:

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above; OR Completion of a relevant Level 1 qualification; OR Other equivalent qualification Other relevant practical OR Work experience may be acceptable for mature students.


Level 1 Qualifications

These one year practical courses with a practical emphasis are designed for those with ambitions towards careers with animals, the countryside or service engineering.

Level 1 students may progress into supervised work where the specialised skills acquired are a useful foundation for further training. Progression to Level 2 qualifications is also possible following a successful outcome.

Enthusiasm for the subject is more important than high grades at GCSE level, but a good general education is important, upon which coursework can be applied.

Recommended Entry Requirements:

GCSEs at grade D-F, OR Completion of an Entry Level 3 course

Foundation Land-based Course (FLC) – Entry Level Qualifications

This course is suitable for students at Entry Level who have learning support needs. Programmes build confidence and help students to develop social skills, while preparing for further learning, work experience and independent living.

Options include horticulture, agriculture and small animal care. All programmes include enrichment activities, personal and social development options.

The programme operates at levels from Entry 1 to Entry Level 3.

Careers and UCAS GuidanceNot knowing what your next step will be after college is a common position to be in, so don’t worry!

We have a professionally trained, qualified Careers Adviser to offer you careers guidance and support. All your questions will be answered to help you plan and prepare for when you leave college.

Our Careers Advice is impartial, confidential and is tailored to your individual needs.

We provide help with:

UCAS applications Personal statementsCareer options CV writing Interview techniques Job applicationsWork experience/internships

Also, with their vast knowledge of their specialist industries, course tutors are also able to advise on careers related to your course.

UCAS Points Table BTEC Level 3 Diploma

Grades

UCAS Points

A Level Grades

D*D*D 420 A*A*A*

D*D D 380 A*AA

D D D 360 AAA

D D M 320 AAC

D M M 280 ACC

M M M 240 CCC

M M P 200 CCE

M P P 160 CEE


APPLYING TO COLLEGE

If you are interested in applying to Sparsholt, follow these four simple steps:

ApplyComplete and return the application form found at the back of the guide to the College

as quickly as possible, making sure you complete all the sections marked *.

All of our courses are very popular, so we recommend you apply early.

Alternatively you can apply online at www.sparsholt.ac.uk – look for your course on

our Coursefinder and click the Apply Now button.

InterviewWe provide 30 interview days each year and all new applicants are offered an

interview to ensure that you and the course are suited to each other. These take place

on Wednesdays during the academic year and on Thursdays in the summer period.

If you are applying for the Foundation Landbased Course (FLC), you will be invited to

a taster day for this course.

Offer Following interview, an offer may be made of a place or a provisional place

(dependant on grades or further work experience for example).

Funding We recommended that even if you are at the early stages of considering attending

College, you should find out what funding may be available to you, perhaps at a

Careers Event or Interview Day.


Apprenticeships Training for the future

An apprenticeship is a training programme designed to develop job-related skills,

knowledge and competencies in a particular industry.

Not just for young people, an apprenticeship can be viewed as an effective development programme for the whole workforce, providing skills and training for members of staff who have not achieved a degree level qualification. So whether you are starting out, or already working in a business, an apprenticeship programme could be the way to kick-start your career.

Sparsholt College and Andover College offer more than 30 apprenticeship programmes across a range of sectors. With new

apprenticeship programmes being added all the time, we are sure to be able to offer you the programme you need.

Becoming an apprentice

To be eligible for any apprenticeship programme, the apprentice must be employed in an industry relevant to the apprenticeship. The qualification element of the programme will primarily

be assessed on evidence accumulated in the workplace. A schedule of teaching and learning (usually delivered one day a week in College) will support the programme. Apprenticeship programmes will also help apprentices to

achieve qualifications in maths and English.

All programmes work towards developing a professional working style, safe working practices, awareness of the work environment and communicating effectively with colleagues and customers.

Level 2 programmes are suitable as an introduction to the industry, developing basic skills. Level 3 programmes prepare apprentices for a career that could lead to a supervisory role.

Apprenticeships typically take between one and two years to complete but this depends on the individual situation.


Apprenticeship level start date duration

Agriculture Crop and Livestock Production

2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months


Depending on the farm, this programme covers preparing and cultivating sites for planting crops; operating a tractor with attachments; harvesting and storing crops; maintaining equipment and machines; looking after herds and flocks; loading animals for transport; and assisting during the breeding season. Certification is available in areas such as Rough Terrain Forklift, All Terrain Vehicle Handling and Chainsaw operations.

Animal Care 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months


Animal care provides the essential skills necessary for the different types of animal care work, including feeding and nutrition, promoting and maintaining health and wellbeing, creating and maintaining suitable accommodation and handling and controlling different animals. Preparing apprentices for a career in animal care and welfare in pet shops, kennels or catteries, breeding, training and grooming, working with charities, rescue centres, zoos and other visitor attractions.

Butchery 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months

Providing the essential skills to prepare meat for customers in retail outlets, for catering businesses or part of the preparation and manufacturing process. The display of meat and fresh food may use artistic skills, and you will need to work in a safe, precise and hygienic way.

Fish Husbandry and Fishery Management


This apprenticeship can be tailored to your specific business needs in the fields of Aquaculture, Aquatics Retail or Sports Fishery. The programme covers the essential elements of fish biology and health including feeding, stocking and moving live fish within an appropriate aquatic environment. Additional units provide the option to include customer care and communication, managing aquatic systems and maintenance of the workplace and environment.

Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management



This role demands a passion for the countryside, plus an aptitude for practical tasks, communication and working as part of a team. The programme will cover monitoring and maintaining game populations (birds and deer) and habitat; constructing, maintaining and repairing structures and surfaces; controlling pests; assisting in game shooting activities; caring for animals used in support of gamekeeping and wildlife management.



Horticulture including Turf Care and Greenkeeping



Practical training and experience to maintain grounds such as golf courses, sports stadia and public spaces. Depending on the nature of the business, the programme may also develop skills in landscaping and maintenance, nurseries and garden retail. The apprenticeship also includes the opportunity to earn NPTC certificates to enable the safe use of machinery such as mowers and brushcutters in the work environment.

Environmental Conservation 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months


Encompassing the rural and urban conservation of landscapes, habitats, species, countryside access and recreation for work as a warden or ranger on a variety of conservation projects. This programme could include surveying and reporting; encouraging leisure use; carrying out habitat management work and river monitoring. A keen interest in conservation and wildlife issues and enjoyment of working outdoors is required for this demanding but rewarding career.

Equine: Horse Care 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months


For people who love horses and care about their welfare there are many opportunities for work including livery yards, riding schools, racing yards and training yards. Apprentices could work as a stable hand, groom, stud assistant or riding instructor. Providing skills to manage the health and well-being of horses, preparing horses for use, preparing and cleaning stables, grazing, exercise and aftercare, and loading horses under supervision.

Land-based Engineering 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months

As a land-based engineer you would be using a combination of technical and engineering skills to diagnose problems and get the most out of agricultural machinery like tractors, combine harvesters, chainsaws, wood chippers, fixed machinery such as milking equipment and horticultural machinery such as mowers and rotavators. The exact nature of your work will depend on your employer.

Trees and Timber 2 Flexible start 12 - 18 months

As a foundation for a career in arboriculture or forestry, training includes identification of different tree species and associated plants and pests; planting trees; disposal of trees and stumps; implementing safe working practices, chainsaw and other machinery use and maintenance. Plus the opportunity to earn the essential certificates of competence for chainsaw use.



Veterinary Nursing 3 September 3 years

An apprenticeship, followed by the advanced apprenticeship, and Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons examinations in Veterinary Nursing, is a route to achieving fully qualified status. The programme covers anatomy, maintaining animal health, essential veterinary nursing skills and nursing support, preparing for the qualification in Veterinary Nursing.

Additional programmes are also available at Andover College:

•Accounting (AAT)

•Beauty Therapy

•Business Administration

•Children’s Care, Learning and Development

•Construction

•Customer Service

•Digital Media

•Hairdressing

•Health and Social Care

•Hospitality and Catering

•IT, Software, Web and Telecoms

•Marketing

•Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools

•Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

For more details call the Apprenticeships Team:

0845 850 0916 [email protected]


AGRICULTURELearning Manager Robin Taylor-Milton Cert Ed, BSc (Hons), MEd.

Level 3 Extended Diploma in

Agriculture with Livestock and Arable Options

Level 3 Diploma in

Agriculture with Livestock and Arable Options

Level 2 Diploma in Agriculture

Level 3 Diploma in Agricultural Engineering

Level 2 Diploma in Agricultural Engineering

Level 1 Diploma in Agriculture

The College also offers a number of work-based learning programmes, part-time and short courses in Agriculture, including:

Apprenticeship in agricultural crop and livestock production Livestock handling: including cattle, pigs, sheep husbandry, lambing, shearing

Pesticide application (PA1, PA2 and PA6) | Tractor driving, all terrain vehicle and rough terrain vehicle handling Training for the DVLA trailer road test | Managing a smallholding

Introduction to agriculture - aimed at the support industries | Bespoke tailored courses

See our part-time course guide or website for details.


Sparsholt’s continued commitment to promote training and qualifications in Agriculture

justifies the College’s reputation for supplying an increasingly high-tech industry with

the next generation of skilled technical staff and managers.

Agriculture students at Sparsholt develop high levels of knowledge and skills in all

aspects of the industry through a range of pathways with a strong emphasis on skills

development throughout the curriculum.

The College Farm

The College farm resources total approximately 300 hectares of realistic working environment for student training and skills development, and students can access all aspects of the industry while studying at Sparsholt.

The farm operates on a commercial basis with the following enterprises:

Dairy Unit

The 100 Friesian cows are milked in a newly modernised three-sided Fulwood Tribone parlour with bulk milk storage, and students are involved in the grassland management,

cattle husbandry, and milking activities. The majority of the farmed area produces forage crops and grazing land to meet the needs of various livestock. An area of 30 hectares is planted annually with forage maize for dairy cow followers and beef feeding.

Pig Unit

The indoor pig unit meets the highest welfare standards and houses 130 sows and their progeny, who are reared for bacon. The pig industry has a high profile in the area, and an increasing number of Sparsholt students are employed in this sector.

Sheep and lamb production

The sheep flock comprises 400 breeding ewes, with Agricultural students being firmly involved in their husbandry and management, including the highly successful Lambing Weekend where students engage with visitors in the Lambing Barn.


Herbie SumnerTutor, Agriculture

With a degree in Agriculture and Countryside Management, Herbie has

years of experience in pig, beef and dairy production and now specialises

in teaching the practical aspects of livestock husbandry and machinery

operations.

He is committed to the industry and training the next generation of farmers, and continues to work on local farms.

“The practical aspects of the course are what the students enjoy most and where you can really make an impact

on their learning. It does surprise some students just how technical the industry

has become, with computers and tablets now the norm”.

Arable production

Hampshire is a predominantly arable county, and students develop machinery and cultivation skills as a core strand of their course. This includes skills development on the home farm, but also on neighbouring farms to provide a breadth of experience. The machinery resource is updated on a regular basis, and students have the opportunity to train in various aspects of machinery maintenance and use.

The farm is served by a Farm Office which provides comprehensive records and financial data concerning the physical and financial performance of all the enterprises of the farms. Under Countryside Stewardship, there is a well-developed conservation programme designed to sustain and improve wildlife habitats on the farms and estate.

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Abby ParsonsSenior Practitioner, Agriculture

Following university Abby worked as a Farm

Advisor, in Environmental Consultancy and as

a lecturer at Cornwall College. Her move to

being a lecturer at Sparsholt has allowed her

to develop and share her love of agriculture

and land management, whilst also leaving a

little time to work on the family farm.

“My role at Sparsholt includes teaching across

Level 3 Agriculture, Game and Wildlife and on

the FdSc and BSc Ecology and Conservation

Management specialising in Soil Science,

Crops, Agriculture and the Environment. I

have been teaching within Further and Higher

Education for eight years.”


Careers Information

The UK Agriculture industry is well established in international markets and the careers/ employment prospects for well qualified and skilled individuals are very good. Employment is available from technician to manager level in the following sectors:

• Crops and arable production• Farm and estate

management• Machinery and agricultural

engineering• Dairy and beef production• Sheep production• Indoor and outdoor pig

enterprise• Ancillary or support

industries including agronomy, consultancy and contract farming

Progression opportunities for management are consistently available, and vacancies always exist for suitably qualified people with drive, enthusiasm and technical ability and students from Sparsholt have an exceptionally good record in securing jobs in agriculture.

Further Information

LANTRAThe UK’s Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industrieswww.lantra.co.uk/careers

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)www.defra.gov.uk/food-farm/

Department of Agriculture and EconomicsUniversity of Reading0118 378 6455www.rdg.ac.uk/AcaDepts/ae/

The Institution of Agricultural Engineers01234 750876www.iagre.org

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Additional attractions include:

Work placement, which is essential to both technical skills development and the course, includes two periods of work placement lasting for three weeks at a time, with students being able to work with tutors to select placements that match their skills and career aspirations.

Involvement with various College events such as Lambing Weekend and Countryside Day provides students with valuable communication, public relations and customer skills development.

Involvement with the Agriculture industry on a national and international basis is provided through work experience, industry and event visits, and study tours to colleges in Europe such as France or Sweden.


AGRICULTURE WITH LIVESTOCK, ARABLE AND MACHINERY OPTIONSThis exciting course will equip individuals for success in employment and develop knowledge, understanding and the practical skills required in the modern agricultural industry

The first year is a balance of knowledge and practical skills development, with the second year concentrating on enterprise management, and providing a choice of optional units in either livestock or arable.

Agriculture business management

Machinery, management, operation and maintenance

Agricultural livestock production and management – cattle, sheep, pigs

Agricultural crop and grassland management

Plant and soil science

Farm management and diversification

Environmental sustainability

Industry placement

Dairy operations and management

Course facilities

• The 210ha college farm includes 100 dairy cows and followers, 420 breeding ewes and 130 breeding sows, with a further 270ha rented off-site growing a mixture of arable crops

• Students studying Agriculture will access the College Farm for a range of practical and technical skills development activities

• Visits to a diverse range of farms and industry linked seminars and technical events

• Sparsholt has a range of very experienced staff with very well-developed industry contacts

• Technology includes a fleet of up to date tractors and machinery for students to practice on


Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as a team and a very keen interest in Agriculture. This will enable students to make the most of their time studying Agriculture at Sparsholt and to enjoy the various aspects of the course.

You can also work towards additional qualifications in a range of practical areas which may include:

• NPTC operation of rough terrain lift trucks

• NPTC all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) • Livestock welfare • NPTC pesticide spray application • NPTC Tractor Driving

Duration

Two years

Where could it take you?

Continuing education: • Degree in agriculture or land use • Level 3 or 4 qualifications in

work-based agriculture • Other related qualifications

Employment:• Farm managers and assistant farm

managers • Work in allied industries e.g.

agronomy, nutrition consultancy, contract farming

• Livestock or arable unit managers • Head tractor driver • Stockperson- dairy, cattle,

sheep, pigs

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 Diploma in Agriculture at merit level.

Louise WilliamsExtended Diploma in Agriculture

I’d visited Sparsholt many times with my school. I thought it was a really nice site and very well organised. I was impressed with the facilities such as the dairy and pig unit, and the lecturers were also very approachable and inspired me to apply.

I first joined on the Animal Management course but once I saw all the work with tractors and large animals that the Agriculture students were doing, I decided this would suit me better. The College helped me to change course quickly and easily. I really enjoyed the practical side of the course, such as learning to ride quad bikes, which I’d never done before. It was very hands-on and I particularly enjoyed the Farm Duties unit where we stayed in the College accommodation and carried out duties as on a real farm – including getting up at 4am to milk the cows! I also did two work placements, including lambing in the first year and dairy farming in the second year, where I milked 500 cows a day. The College gave us a good choice of placements and I learnt a lot.

I’ve got a summer job at a dairy farm in Somerset and then in September I’m off to Uni to study a Foundation Degree in Agriculture. I definitely want to go into grassland management and would love to work abroad, maybe in New Zealand or Australia.


Level 3 Diploma in

AGRICULTURE WITH LIVESTOCK, ARABLE AND MACHINERY OPTIONSThis exciting course will equip individuals for success in employment and develop knowledge, understanding and the practical skills required in the modern agricultural industry.

The first year is a balance of knowledge and practical skills development, with the second year concentrating on business enterprise management, diversification and providing a choice of optional units in either livestock husbandry or arable.


Work placement is essential to technical skills development and the course includes two periods of work placement lasting for three weeks at a time, with students being able to work with tutors to select placements that match their skills and career aspirations. Involvement with various College events such as Lambing Weekend and Countryside Day provides students with valuable communication public relations and customer skills development.

Involvement with the Agriculture industry on a national and international basis is provided through work experience, industry and event visits, and study tours to colleges in Europe such as France or Sweden.

Agriculture business management

Machinery management, operation and maintenance

Agricultural livestock production and management

Agricultural crop and grassland management


Farm management and diversification

Environmental sustainabilityIndustry placement

Dairy operations and management

Course facilities

• The 210ha college farm includes 100 dairy cows and followers, 420 breeding ewes and 130 breeding sows, with a further 270ha rented off-site growing a mixture of arable crops

• Students studying Agriculture will access the College Farm for a range of practical and technical skills development activities

• Visits to a diverse range of farms and industry linked seminars and technical events

• Sparsholt has a range of very experienced staff with very well-developed industry contacts

• Technology includes a fleet of up to date tractors and machinery for students to practise on.


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Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as a team and a very keen interest in Agriculture. This will enable students to make the most of their time studying Agriculture at Sparsholt and to enjoy the various aspects of the course.

Any experience from placements or involvement with farming is helpful, but that is also offered on the course.

Duration

Two years

You can also work towards

additional qualifications in a range of practical areas which may include:

• NPTC operation of rough terrain lift trucks

• NPTC all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

• Livestock welfare• NPTC Pesticide spray

application• NPTC Tractor Driving


Continuing education:• Foundation Degree in

Agriculture or land use• Level 3 or 4 qualifications in

work-based agriculture• Other related qualifications

Employment:• Livestock or arable unit

managers• Head tractor driver• Stockperson - dairy, cattle,

sheep, pigs

There is currently a shortage of new entrants to the agricultural industry so our completing students are very much in demand.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above, one of which must be English, or a Level 2 Diploma in Agriculture with two units at merit level.


Level 2 Diploma in

AGRICULTURE

This exciting course will give all students the opportunity to gain an insight in to the agricultural industry. Alongside this you will gain valuable skills and experience of a variety of farm tasks to make you ready for employment in the industry.

These new practical skills will be supported by the knowledge you gain as the course progresses. Maths and English skills will be enhanced as necessary to enable progression to other courses and employment.


• A three week work placement

• Visits to Grassland Dairy Event and Livestock Show

• Very practical course• Visits to local farms and

estates

Agricultural business and industry

Livestock production-cattle, sheep and pigs

Farm and estate maintenance

Crop science and growth

Machinery operations and maintenance

Land-based business

Course facilities

• The 210ha college farm includes 100 dairy cows and followers, 420 breeding ewes and 130 breeding sows, with a further 270ha rented off-site growing a mixture of arable crops.

• You will go on visits to a diverse range of farms and industry linked seminars and technical events.

• Sparsholt has a range of very experienced staff with well-developed industry contacts.

• Technology includes a fleet of up to date tractors and machinery for students to practice on.


• NPTC tractor driving and related operations

• NPTC all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

• BWMB shearing seals

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Progression to the Level

3 Diploma or Extended Diploma course

• Progression on to Level 2/Level 3 Apprenticeship

Employment:• Tractor driver• Stockperson- dairy, cattle,

sheep, pigs• Contract farming

There is currently a shortage of new entrants to the agricultural industry so our completing students are very much in demand


Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as part of a team.

A keen interest in the agricultural industry and a willingness to learn new skills and enhance their knowledge is a must for any student on this course.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including English and Maths, or a Level 1 Diploma in Agriculture at pass level.


Level 1 Diploma in

AGRICULTURE

This very practical course will develop a wide range of varied and valuable practical and personal skills. Students will be involved in tractor driving, working with modern machinery, livestock-handling and daily practical tasks with cattle sheep and pigs, and farm maintenance.

Maths and English skills will be enhanced as necessary to enable progression to other courses and employment.


During the course, students will go on varied farm visits and trips to local farming shows e.g. the Grassland Event. The regular work on the farm with cattle, sheep (including lambing) and pigs are particular highlights for the students.

Operating a tractor and equipment maintenance

Husbandry and nutrition for cattle, sheep, pigs and other animals

Planting and maintaining crops

Farm skills development and practice

Course facilities

• The 210ha college farm includes 100 dairy cows and followers, 420 breeding ewes and 130 breeding sows, with a further 270ha rented off-site growing a mixture of arable crops.

• Sparsholt has a range of very experienced staff with very well-developed industry contacts.

Is it for you?

To be a successful student, you will need to have a keen interest in farming and wish to work outside, in all weathers. You will be keen to complete

your Level 1 portfolio with help and support from your tutors.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 2 Agriculture• Apprenticeship in Agriculture

Employment:• working with livestock

on a farm• working on an arable farm• general tractor driving duties

Entry Requirements

Students may be accepted directly after leaving school. Previous experience is not essential. Applicants will be expected to achieve GCSEs at grades E and F.


Level 3 Diploma in

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERINGThis exciting course will equip individuals for success in technical employment and develop knowledge, understanding and the practical skills required in the modern Land-based Technology industry.

Sparsholt College has an extensive range of very well equipped land-based machinery workshops and a very wide range of land-based machinery. The College is currently investing in both new and refurbished workshop facilities. Sparsholt College has excellent long-established links with all the main local dealers which are used for visits and kindly provide other support and facilities.

The course is taught by specialist staff who have an extensive range of experience and relevant qualifications and who are in regular liaison with the industry. Visits to our varied range of contacts with machinery dealers and manufacturers will supplement the college facilities.


• A three week work placement with a machinery dealer/operator

• Visits to machinery events such as the Grassland Dairy Event and Livestock Show

• Visits to machinery manufacturers and dealers


• NPTC Forklift• NPTC ATV• C&G Welding Level 2

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Progression to a Degree in

Land-based Technology• Progression on to Level 2 /

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Employment:• Skilled Technician servicing

agricultural machinery and ground care machinery e.g. mowers, cultivators

• Fixed plant e.g. grain driers, vegetable handling and packing

• Large machinery e.g. tractors and combines

There is currently a shortage of new entrants to the landbased engineering industry so our

completing students are very much in demand.

Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as part of a team. A keen interest in the agricultural technology industry and a willingness to learn new skills and enhance their knowledge is a must for any student on this course.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths and ICT, or a Level 2 Diploma in a relevant subject.


Level 2 Diploma in

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERINGThis exciting course will provide students with the essential technical knowledge and practical skills to confidently work with modern machinery.

Maths and English skills will be topped up as necessary to enable progression to other courses and employment.

Course facilities

Sparsholt College has an extensive range of very well equipped land-based machinery workshops and a very wide range of landbased machinery. The College has excellent long-established links with all the main local dealers which are used for visits and kindly provide other support and facilities.

The course will be taught by specialist staff who have an extensive range of experience and relevant qualifications and who are in regular liaison with the industry. Visits to our varied range of contacts with machinery dealers and manufacturers will supplement the college facilities.

Is it for you?

You will have a keen interest in technology and engineering, wanting to work in a land-based environment, flexibility and the motivation to succeed.

You can also work towards appropriate additional qualifications to enhance your employability.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Progression to the Level

3 Diploma or Extended Diploma course

• Progression on to Level 2/Level 3 Apprenticeship


• A three week work placement with a machinery dealer/operator

• Visits to machinery events such as the Grassland Dairy Event and Livestock Show

Health and safety in land-based technology

Applied mechanical principles

Maintenance and operation of farm machinery

Workshop practice and skills development

Service and repair engines

Employment:• Assistant technician posts

working with:• Ground care machinery eg

mowers, cultivators• Fixed plant eg grain driers,

vegetable handling and packing

• Large machinery eg tractors, combines

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including Maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification at pass level.


ANIMAL MANAGEMENT AND VETERINARY NURSING

Learning Manager Bjorn Holm BA, NDPM

Assistant Learning Manager Kirsty Williams BSc, PGCE, MA (Ed)

Animal Management Centre Manager Chris Mitchell BSc (Hons) PGCE

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management with options in Animal Science | Zoo Husbandry | Companion Animals

Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management with options in Zoo Husbandry | Companion Animals

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in

Animal Science for students 19 yrs or above

Level 3 Animal Conservation for students who have an interestin the animal related aspects of conservation

Progression Diploma in Animal Care

Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care with options in Exotics | Grooming

Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care

Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing

Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship

Nursing Assistant in a Veterinary Environment


Other Animal Management and Veterinary Nursing courses at Sparsholt College include:

BSc (Hons) Animal Management | BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour top up year

FdSc in Animal Management and Applied Science | FdSc in Veterinary Nursing Science

Apprenticeship in Animal Care | Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing

Animal Nursing Assistant (Distance Learning) | C&G LBS Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistants

C&G LBS Level 3 Dog Grooming | A range of part-time and short courses

Our most popular range of courses, with unparalleled training facilities: they honestly don’t come better than this!

Where else can you find:

• 500+ animals from over 100 species on site to provide practical training and understanding of handling requirements, nutrition and feeding protocols, different housing and environment requirements

• Zoo licence and members of British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria (BIAZA)

• Grooming centre, and top class kennelling with boarding licence

• A brand new cattery for up to 18 cats

• State of the art Veterinary Nursing Training Centre, with a complete training veterinary surgery

• Landscaped animal housing areas (including red panda enclosure) and paddocks for larger species of hoof stock and birds

• Specialist accommodation for reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates

• Access to modern pig unit for hands-on practice of routine tasks including farrowing observation

• Access to 2,000 plus farm animals for large animal experience

• Access to the on-site, national training facility for work with ornamental and exotic fish

• Strong liaison with many UK zoos for training technical staff and managers

• Strong links with Performing Animals Welfare Standards International (PAWSI) who collaborate with us on the development and management of our animal training and behaviour courses


How students use the Animal Management Centre

• All students have a minimum of one full day per week carrying out general health and husbandry duties plus additional time for specific practical units students will be involved in the monitoring of health and weight of all of the animals on the unit

• Students take an active part in the construction and maintenance of the animal enclosures

• Students take an active role in the design and implementation of enrichment for all animals across the unit

• In order to promote conservation the students are involved in monitoring and assisting with a variety of breeding programmes at the centre within the parameters of the zoo licence

• Students are encouraged to take part in our volunteer program in order to gain additional experience and take part in providing keeper talks to the public at our open events


Careers Information

In addition to animal collections, the industry also includes opportunities in a range of animal health, behaviour and conservation.

Possible career options

• Sales, pet retail outlets and marketing; small business to superstore

• Kennel work, which can lead to management or self-employment

• Animal societies and charitable organisations such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, Blue Cross

• Grooming parlours• Animal training and handling

for private owners• Animal Behaviour work

assisting owners and other professionals with behaviour related issues

• Training and handling working dogs, for example police dogs, guide dogs, Customs and Excise

• Assistant keeper to an animal collection

• Education officer within a zoological park

• Conservation work in the UK or abroad

• Animal Insurance• Companion animal breeding• Companion animal boarding

e.g. kennels or catteries

Membership of related organisations, such as ABWAK and BVNA and voluntary work within the sector is recommended to all interested in working within all areas of the sector.

Further Information

National Careers Servicehttps://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

RSPCAThe Causeway, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1HGwww.rspca.org.uk Pet Care Trade AssociationBedford Business Centre, 170 Mile Road, Bedford MK42 9TWwww.petcare.org.uk

Kennel Club1 Clarges Street, London W1Y 8ABwww.thekennelclub.org.uk

British Association of Zoo and Aquaria, Regents Park, London NW1 4RYwww.biaza.org.uk

The Association of British and Irish Wild Animal Keeperswww.abwak.org

The Association of Pet Behaviour CounsellorsPO BOX 46, Worcester WR8 9YSwww.apbc.org.uk

The Association of Pet Dog TrainersPO Box 17, Kempsford GL7 4WZwww.apdt.co.uk

Animal Jobs Directwww.animal-job.co.uk/careers-with-animals

LANTRA - The UK’s Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industrieswww.lantra.co.uk/Industries/Animal-Care.aspx

Working within the animal sector can be one of the most rewarding areas of work possible and no two days are ever the same. However it does require a certain amount of hard work and acceptance that animals do need looking after 24 hours a day, whatever the day.

Communication skills are also very important as there are few jobs with animals which do not require some interaction with the public, either as owners of pets or through educational talks and presentations.

The opportunities are endless and can allow you to take on a general husbandry role or specialise in an aspect of your choice, such as with a specific species or type of care. Career progression varies depending on the size of business and the area in which you work, but in most cases practical experience and qualifications gained over a period of time could open up management opportunities.

There are about 150 zoos and bird gardens open to the public. Of these, 15 are large zoos and 20 are specialist bird collections, the rest being small or medium sized. Competition for positions in zoos and wildlife or safari parks is intense. You will need build up experience and show initiative, i.e. work voluntarily for a local zoo or wildlife park during vacations.



The course also includes visits to various sectors of the industry and hosts outside speakers. These visits include zoological parks, specialist veterinary centres and conservation centres which enhance students’ understanding. Students also have the opportunity to attend residential study tours both in the UK and in South Africa allowing students to fully experience wild animals and their management.


ANIMAL MANAGEMENT with options in: Animal Science | Zoo Husbandry | Companion Animals

This course comprises 180 credits of practical and theoretical units. Year 1 provides a sound foundation to animal science and husbandry. Year 2 students will select an option stream to focus on specific career paths in animal science, zoo work or companion animals.

The course provides scientifically based management training, preparing students for roles in technical or managerial areas of the animal sector, or to continue their studies into Higher Education.

Practical animal handling and behaviour

Health and nutrition

Breeding and welfare

Biology and anatomy

Exotic and zoo husbandry

Conservation and wildlife rehabilitation

Nursing, aquatics, equine and farm livestock

Specialist science units identified as required for Veterinary Science progression

Course facilities

The outstanding resources at the Animal Management Centre form the foundations of the course, which is delivered by teachers who have an excellent range of specialism and expertise across all areas of animal work including companion and zoo animals.

Progression to higher education is a key priority for this course, and UCAS advice and guidance starts at the end of year one.


Zoe Grantham

Level 3 Extended Diploma

in Animal Management

I felt A Levels weren’t right for me and I thought

Sparsholt would suit me, with more coursework

than exams. The practical element was also really

appealing. I visited the College on an Open Day and

can remember that everyone explained the course

really well. The course has been fantastic, just brilliant.

Our working relationship with the tutors was also

really nice, they are very easy to talk to. Watching

the Animal Management Centre grow, including the

exotics section, has been amazing.

My work experience was very helpful and the recent

study tour in South Africa was incredible. The

conservation aspect was really interesting and I’d like

to go back again.

I’m going on to study Animal Science at Nottingham University. The scientific options in

the second year of my Diploma course have made this possible, and I think the Higher

Education elements will also help make this transition easier. Sparsholt has been a real

experience and a great environment to work in.

Is it for you?

Successful students will be focused and committed to both practical and theory aspects of the course, and have a passion for animals and their welfare.

Interest in both the husbandry of a range of species, and the applied science knowledge that underpins effective animal management, will enable students to gain maximum benefit from their course and to progress to employment or Higher Education.

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Animal Science, Behaviour

and Conservation at Foundation Degree or Degree level

• Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeships (Subject to employment position)

• Opportunity to study Veterinary Science (with appropriate GCSE grades)

Employment:• Veterinary Nurse or Assistant• Pet retail including specialist

outlets• Kennels and catteries• Grooming and hydrotherapy

• Animal rescue centres (wild and domestic)

• Animal training and behaviour for private pet owners or as working dogs

• Zoo keeper and related animal collections

• Education officers in animal collections

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care at merit level.


Level 3 Diploma in

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT with options in: Zoo Husbandry | Companion Animals This course comprises 120 credits of practical and theoretical units. Year 1 provides a sound foundation to animal science and husbandry. Year 2 students will select an option stream to focus on specific career paths in zoo work or companion animals.

The course provides scientifically based management training, preparing students for roles in technical areas of the animal sector, or to continue their studies into Higher Education.


The course also includes visits to various sectors of the industry and outside speakers. These visits include zoological parks, specialist veterinary centres and conservation centres which enhance students’ understanding. Students also have the opportunity to attend residential study tours both in the UK and in South Africa allowing students to fully experience wild animals and their management.

Practical animal handling and behaviour

Health and nutrition

Accommodation and feeding

Breeding and welfare

Biology and anatomy

Specialist units in exotic animals and/or nursing in line with career path

Course facilities

The outstanding resources at the Animal Management centre form the foundations of the course, which is delivered by teachers who have an excellent range of specialism and expertise across all areas of animal work including companion and zoo animals. Progression to higher education is a key priority for this course, and UCAS advice and guidance starts at the end of year one.

Is it for you?

Successful students will be focussed and committed to both practical and theory aspects of the course, and have a passion for animals and their welfare. Interest

in both the husbandry of a range of species, and the applied science knowledge that underpins effective animal management, will enable students to gain maximum benefit from their course, and to progress to employment or Higher Education.You can also work towards an additional qualification – the ABC Level 3 Certificate inPractical Animal Care Skills.

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Foundation Degree in Animal

Management• Apprenticeship within the

industry

• Progression onto Year 2 of the City & Guilds Extended Diploma for eligible students

Employment:• Veterinary Nurse or Assistant• Pet retail including specialist

outlets• Kennels and catteries• Grooming and hydrotherapy• Animal rescue centres (wild

and domestic)• Animal training and

behaviour for private pet owners or as working dogs

• Zoo keeper and related animal collections

• Education officers in animal collections

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care.


Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in ANIMAL SCIENCE(for students 19 yrs and above only)

This course comprises of 60 credits with a mix of animal science and husbandry units and is aimed at mature students who wish to work in the Animal Management industry, or to progress onto Higher Education.

Animal health and welfare

Science and physiology

Species nutrition

Animal husbandry and handling

Academic skills

Course facilities

The Animal Management Centre houses over 500 animals covering 100+ species. With a Zoo licence, Boarding Establishment licence and membership to the main professional bodies within the industry, the facilities provide up to date industry related skills to prepare you for industry. The teaching team all have specialist experience within the industry and are enthusiastic to deliver an exciting learning programme.

Is it for you?

This course is aimed at mature students who are working towards a career in an aspect of the Animal management industry, or to use the qualification as a stepping

stone to Higher Education or Apprenticeships. Successful students will have a passion for Animal Husbandry and welfare, and the commitment to complete both the classroom and practical content of the course.

You can also work towards additional qualifications related to the animal industry.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• City & Guilds Level 3

Extended Diploma in Animal Management

• Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing or Animal Care/Management

• Progression to Foundation Degree courses depending on student’s individual background

Employment:• Veterinary Nursing• Pet retail including specialist

outlets• Kennels and catteries• Animal rescue centres• Zoo work

Entry Requirements

• Students must be aged 19 or above

• Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a relevant Level 2 Diploma or an appropriate equivalent, including experience in the Animal Industry.


Level 3 ANIMAL CONSERVATION

This course comprises 180 credits of practical and theoretical units taken from both the Animal Management and Countryside and Conservation programmes. Successful completion would result in a Diploma in either Animal Management and a subsidiary diploma in countryside and conservation or vice-versa.

Year 1 provides a sound foundation to the key concepts required for this type of study. Year 2 then takes the students towards their chosen pathways within this and determines which way around the qualifications are awarded.

The course provides scientifically based research and conservation training, preparing students for roles in the field of conservation either in the UK or abroad, or to continue their studies into Higher Education.


The course also includes visits to various sectors of the industry and outside speakers. These visits include zoological parks and conservation centres which enhance students’ understanding. Students also have the opportunity to attend residential study tours both in the UK and in South Africa allowing students to fully experience wild animals and their management.

Ecology and environmental issues

Conservation and wildlife rehabilitation

Physiological and biological processes

Investigative study

Inheritance and genetics

Biology and anatomy

Animal health, behaviour and husbandry


Course facilities

The outstanding resources at the Animal Management centre form the foundations of the course, which is delivered by teachers who have an excellent range of specialism and expertise across all areas of animal conservation work. Progression to Higher Education is a key priority for this course, and UCAS advice and guidance starts at the end of year one.

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Animal Science, Ecology and

Conservation at Foundation Degree or Degree level

Employment:• Zoo keeper and related

animal collections• Animal rescue centres• Game keeper• Education officers in animal

collections• Conservation research

Is it for you?

Successful students will be focussed and committed to both practical and theory aspects of the course and have a passion for animals and their welfare. Interest in the conservation, care and

research of animals gives the main focus of this course and the applied science knowledge that underpins effective animal management, will enable students to gain maximum benefit from their course and to progress to employment or Higher Education and employment.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care at merit level.


Progression Diploma in ANIMAL CARE This 60 credit course allows students to succeed by completing a range of units in animal science and husbandry. Students will have achieved an appropriate level 2, but may find that a full level 3 course is not suitable for their needs. This course offers a range of units with a focus on husbandry and welfare to prepare students for employment within the Animal Industry.

Course facilities

The Animal Management Centre houses over 500 animals covering 100+ species. With a Zoo licence, Boarding Establishment licence and membership to the main professional bodies within the industry, the facilities provide up to date industry related skills to prepare you for industry. The staff team all have experience within the industry and are enthusiastic to deliver an exciting learning programme.

Animal health

Animal breeding and grooming

Care of zoo animals

Animal handling and welfare

Animal feeding and accommodation

There is also the opportunity for English and Maths support with additional functional skills sessions.

Is it for you?

Successful students will have completed a Level 2 qualification, but may find a full Level 3 is not suitable for their needs. They will be passionate about the care and welfare of a range of species, and enjoy both the classroom and practical aspects of the course.

Duration

One year


Continuing education: • Progression onto City &

Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management

• Apprenticeship within the industry

Employment: • Veterinary Nursing • Pet retail including specialist

outlets • Kennels and catteries • Animal rescue centres • Zoo work

Entry Requirements

Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care at pass level.


Level 2 Diploma in ANIMAL CARE with options in: Exotics | Grooming

This course provides the basic practical skills of animal care together with theoretical knowledge. In practical sessions the focus is learning through tasks and developing skills whilst caring for and handling animals. Practical animal handling sessions within the Animal Management Centre will include farm livestock, exotic animals, domestic pets, and birds.


• Work experience is completed at the College’s extensive Animal Management Centre during term time.

• Visits are organised during the year to support the syllabus and include Monkey World and the New Forest Wildlife Park.

• There is the opportunity to take part in a two-night weekend study trip to FSC Margam Discovery Centre in Wales to undertake a biology based program.

Handling and husbandry

Behaviour of a wide range of animals

The biology of animals

Specialist units looking at exotic animals and dog grooming

Work experience

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as a Level 2 in Countryside and Environment, and Functional Skills in Maths and English as appropriate.

Course facilities

• Extensive practical facilities at the Animal Management Centre

• Teaching staff bring experience and expertise in all areas of animal work including behaviour, grooming, veterinary nursing, zoo keeping, and animal training

• Students are well supported in their learning as they have access to Student Services and the Study Support Centre

Is it for you?

Students will be passionate about the care and welfare

of a range of species, and enjoy both the classroom and practical aspects of the course. They will want to learn about the Animal Industry, and have plans for employment in the industry, or to progress to a Level 3 course.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• City & Guilds Level 3

Extended Diploma in Animal Management

• City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management

• Level 3 Animal Conservation• Progression Diploma in

Animal Management

Employment:• Apprenticeships within

the industry• Animal Care employment

such as working in kennels, grooming centres, pet shops and animal welfare centres

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care.


Level 1 Diploma in ANIMAL CARE

For keen school leavers with an interest in working with animals, this course involves practical lessons that will help develop essential animal handling techniques, together with classroom-based theory to provide the relevant knowledge.

Additional attractions of the course:

Students will visit a range of animal collections such as Bristol Zoo and Cotswold Wildlife Park. A Speakers’ Day is held midway through the year with outside guests from animal related industries talking to students about their job roles.

Animal handling and health

Health and safety

Animal feeding and accommodation

Animals in the wild and in society

Developing team working and personal skills

Is it for you?

A successful student will be motivated and enthusiastic with a passion for working with animals. They will be keen to learn about different animals and how to care for them, with plans to work in the industry, or to progress to a Level 2 course.

Course facilities

Teaching staff will bring experience and expertise in all areas of animal work including vet nursing, zoo keeping, welfare work and animal training. Industry links can be made through the various visits and with outside speakers. The animal management centre is stocked with a diverse and extensive range of animals that allow the students to develop

their practical animal handling and husbandry skills.

You can also work towards additional qualificationssuch as:

• Functional skills Maths and English

• Life skills award• Certificate in work based

animal care

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 2 Diploma in Animal

Care

Employment:• Kennel and cattery worker• Dog walker

• Pet shop assistant• Animal care assistant

Entry Requirements

Two or more GCSE grades at D and E.


VETERINARY NURSING COURSESSparsholt also has a very strong provision for teaching and training Veterinary Nurses, Assistant Veterinary Nurses and other lay staff.

Careers Information - Veterinary Nursing

If Veterinary Nursing is your interest then Sparsholt is the place to be.

Entry onto the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing requires five GCSEs at grade A-C including maths, English and science or successful completion of the Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship – Nursing Assistant in a Veterinary Environment (VCA) or equivalent.

You would also need to be in full time employment within a registered and approved training practice. For details on those practices please see the RCVS website or contact the College for details.

Entry onto the Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship also requires employment within the veterinary sector but this does not need to be an RCVS approved training centre. You also need four GCSEs at grade D or above including English and Science or equivalent qualifications.

Possible career options;

• Veterinary Nursing in general practice

• Veterinary Nursing in a specialist or referral practice

• Animal health and conservation either here in the UK or overseas, both paid and voluntary

• Work within education at a specialist FE college or through an organisation such BVNA or RCVS

• Insurance for animal health companies

• Work for other organisations such as Defra, Lantra and a variety of charities such as RSPCA, PDSA and the Blue Cross

Further Information

Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)Belgravia House, 62-64 Horseferry Road, London, SW1P 2AFwww.rcvs.org.uk

British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA)82 Greenway Business Centre, Harlow Business Park, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QE01279 450567www.bvna.org.uk


Level 3 Diploma in VETERINARY NURSING

The Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing follows and Apprenticeship Framework and is designed to support the preparation of veterinary nurses for professional registration on the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons register of Veterinary Nurses.

Anatomy and physiology

Welfare, health and husbandry for veterinary nursing

Operational requirements and professional relationships

Essential nursing care and infection control in veterinary practice

Anaesthesia and critical care support

Course facilities

Sparsholt Veterinary Nursing Approved Centre is a well-established, purpose built facility, which has up to date technology and equipment, required by the RCVS for a course provider. The College has excellent veterinary industry links which are associated with a large number of RCVS Approved Training Veterinary Practices in the south of England.

Is it for you?

This programme is designed to help candidates develop veterinary nursing knowledge and effective clinical skills, in preparation for the responsibilities of professional registration and veterinary practice. The qualification requires candidates to have access to a RCVS registered Veterinary Training Practice, which they are in paid employment either in a part-

time or full-time placement. Apprenticeship funding is available.

Duration

Three years part-time on a day release basis


Continuing education: • Higher Education Level

such as post-professional registration degree programmes

• RCVS post-qualification Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing framework

Employment: • Veterinary Nursing in general

practice • Veterinary Nursing in a

specialist or referral practice • Animal health and

conservation either here in the UK or overseas, both paid and voluntary

• Work within education at a specialist FE college or through an organisation such BVNA or RCVS Insurance for animal health companies

• Work for other organisations such as Defra, Lantra and a variety of charities such as the RSPCA, PDSA and the Blue Cross

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 Diploma.


Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship:

NURSING ASSISTANT in a Veterinary Environment

The course has been designed to provide students with practical competence and underpinning knowledge relevant to a veterinary care environment, whilst working under the direction and/or supervision of a Veterinary Surgeon.*

Animal handling in the veterinary environment

Assisting with care in the veterinary environment

Administrative duties in the veterinary environment


Course facilities

Teaching staff will bring experience and expertise in all areas of animal work including vet nursing, health and welfare work as well as animal training. The animal management centre is stocked with a diverse and extensive range of animals that allow the students to develop their practical animal handling and husbandry skills. The students will also use the fully equipped Veterinary Centre.

Is it for you?

Potential students applying for this course need to be able to demonstrate commitment and motivation towards completion of the qualification along with a keen interest in the subject area. Due to the practical element of the course, students must be able to gain real experience of a veterinary care environment and are required to be in work either voluntary or paid employment.

Due to the practical element of the course, students must be able to gain real experience of a veterinary care environment and are required to undertake a substantial period of recorded work experience (600 hours). This can be gained on an employed, voluntary or non employed basis.

The course also includes work towards Functional Skills in Maths and English as appropriate.

Duration

15 months


Continuing education:• Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary

Nursing• Level 3 Certificate, Subsidiary

Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma in Animal Management

• Other related Level 3 qualifications

Employment:• Apprenticeships in both

Veterinary or Animal Care• Animal Nursing Assistant• Veterinary Nurse• Animal shelters and charities

e.g. RSPCA, PDSA• Other animal related

occupations

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including English and a Science, or a Level 2 Diploma.

* Please note that students may not legally perform any action either during their training, or post-qualification, which may be interpreted as an act of veterinary surgery as defined by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966. Students, employers and veterinary surgeons are directed to the current RCVS guidance.


ARBORICULTURE, FORESTRY AND WOODLAND

MANAGEMENTLearning Manager for Arboriculture, Forestry and Woodland Management

Jonathan Baker FICfor, MArborA, CEnv MIfL

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Arboriculture

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Forestry

Level 2 Diploma in Arboriculture

Level 2 Diploma in Forestry

Level 1 Land-Based Operations – Woodland Skills

Other Arboriculture, Forestry and Lowland Woodland Management courses at Sparsholt College include:

BSc (Hons) in Woodland Conservation ManagementFoundation Degree in Woodland Conservation Management

Part-time and short courses towards Chainsaw and Brushcutter Certificates, Tree Climbing and Felling.

Please see our full-time Higher Education prospectus, part-time course guide or website for appropriate details.


We train those who will manage and work in our forestry industries for timber production as well as those who look after and manage individual trees in parks and private gardens.

The facilities on site include:

• Sawmill and timber processing area – for developing skills in adding value to products and processing

• Safe training areas for chainsaw, brush cutters, strimmers and machine operation – essential for machine skills development

• Workshops for maintenance of chainsaw and other equipment

• Safe tree climbing practise areas, with a wide variety of trees on site or nearby to enhance climbing skills

• Local forests to provide management practise and hands-on training to commercial standards

• Students also have the chance to become involved in projects such as the tallest tree project and the national student climbing competition to widen interest and experience

All courses in Woodland Management and Arboriculture have access to a wide range of facilities, both on and off campus, including engineering workshops, chainsaw workshops, sawmill and timber processing area, tractor driving training areas, computer suites and research laboratories.

Off campus, extensive use is made of local forests, woodlands and arboreta for work sites and practical field trips.


Careers Information

qualifications are sought by both public and private sector employers.

Forestry

Forestry is the management

of woodlands and forests

and involves many different

aspects including conservation

and recreation, landscape

and producing timber. The

conservation of important

ecological habitats and the

balance required to sustain

woodlands in silvicultural and

economic terms are key areas

of the courses at Sparsholt.


• Forest worker – progressing to supervisor or foreman grade

• Woodland ranger • Work on private estates • Organisations and charitable

trusts such as The Woodland Trust and The National Trust

Arboriculture

Arboriculture is the cultivation, management and study of individual trees and woods usually associated with the urban environment. It is both a practice and a science and includes the study of tree

Trees and woodlands are a vital part of our countryside, urban areas and conservation. The industries require well trained managers and practical staff; something our courses aim to fulfil. With increasing threats to our woodlands and trees from new pests and diseases it is of increasing importance to have trained individuals to lookafter them.

Enjoyment of hard work in the demanding environment of woodland and tree management is essential. Enthusiasm, coupled with personal motivation, practical skills and academic


biology, physiology and pest and diseases. Arboriculture also includes the ecological and conservation importance of trees in the urban environment and the benefits to urban populations.


• Tree officer for a local authority

• Commercial tree work • Tree nursery, arboretum • Tree care companies • Utility work

Further Information

Institute of Chartered Foresters 59 George St., Edinburgh EH2 2JG0131 240 1425www.charteredforesters.org ConFor – Confederation of Forest Industries 59 George St., Edinburgh EH2 2JG0131 240 1410www.confor.org.uk

Royal Forestry Society The Hay Barns, Home Farm Drive, Upton Estate, Banbury OX15 6HU01295 678588www.rfs.org.uk

Arboricultural Association The Malthouse, Stroud Green Standish, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3DL01242 [email protected]

International Society of Arboriculture Wednesbury WS10 ODR0121 556 8302www.isa-arboriculture.org

LANTRA www.lantra.co.uk/Industries/Trees-and-Timber.aspx



ARBORICULTURE

A two year course that gives students the practical skills and underpinning knowledge to enter the arboriculture industry at craftsperson level or higher. Successful students may progress to higher education within the subject area.


Field trips to Savernake Forest, the New Forest, Westonbirt Arboretum and Hilliers Tree Nursery have all been enjoyed by Level 3 Arboriculture students. Second year students have had the opportunity to climb and measure some of the tallest trees in England.

Principles of plant and soil science

Tree and shrub pruning and maintenance

Tree felling and chainsaw use

Arboricultural skills

Tree identification

Pests and diseases of trees

Advanced arboricultural practices

Tree surveys and inspections

Woodland habitat management

Advanced arboricultural machinery

Course facilities

Sparsholt students are in the enviable position of having access to a variety of practical worksites; from a private arboretum to Forestry Commission woodland and The New Forest.

The arboriculture and forestry department is extremely well equipped with a range of tools, machinery and equipment. For theory work there is a fully equipped science lab, computer rooms and an excellent library. The

course is taught by staff with backgrounds in industry and academia.

Is it for you?

A successful student will be fully committed to the course, able to manage their time and workload, have a strong work ethic and be prepared to work outside in all weathers. They must be prepared to study in their own time, and crucially, have a head for heights.

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as competence certificates in the following disciplines(if you can demonstrate ability above the level of the diploma - they may incur a small cost)

• Tree climbing and aerial rescue

• Chainsaw crosscut and maintenance

• Tree felling• Stump grinders• Wood chippers• Mobile Elevated Work

Platforms


Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• FdSc in Woodland

Conservation Management• BSc in Woodland

Conservation Management• Arboricultural Association

Technicians Certificate• Level 6 Diploma in

Arboriculture

Employment:• Self-employed arborist• Arborist employed by a

contractor• Utility arboriculture• Assistant tree officer• Tree inspector• Conservation work• Arboretum employee• Local Authority employee• Woodland/estate work

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths, Science and English, or a relevant Level 2 Diploma at merit level

• Mature students may be considered with alternative qualifications or experience

• Applicants must be aged 17 or over at the start of the course due to age restrictions on chainsaw use



FORESTRY

A two year course that gives students the practical skills and underpinning knowledge to enter the forestry industry – particularly lowland woodland – at craftsperson level or higher. Successful students may progress to higher education within the subject area.


Field trips to Savernake Forest, the New Forest, Westonbirt Arboretum and Hilliers Tree Nursery have all been enjoyed by Level 3 forestry students. Second year students have been given a tour of West Dean Estate and Giddings Sawmill.

Principles of plant and soil science

Measuring trees and woodlands

Silvicultural practices


Tree identification

Pests and diseases of trees

Advanced forestry machinery

Tree surveys and inspections

Woodland habitat management

Woodland management

Course facilities

Sparsholt students are in the enviable position of having access to a variety of practical worksites; from Forestry Commission woodland and The New Forest to private estates. The arboriculture and forestry department is extremely well equipped with a range of tools, machinery and equipment. For theory work there is a fully equipped science lab, computer rooms and an excellent library. The course is taught by staff with backgrounds in industry and academia.

Is it for you?

A successful student will be fully committed to the course, able to manage their time and workload, have a strong work ethic and be prepared to work outside in all weathers. They must be prepared to study and collect data in their own time.

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as competence certificates in the following:(if you can demonstrate ability above the level of the diploma (they may incur a small cost))

• Chainsaw crosscut and maintenance

• Tree felling• Tractor driving• Woodchippers• Brushcutters• Polesaws• Hedge trimmers


Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• FdSc in Woodland

Conservation Management• BSc in Woodland

Conservation Management

Employment:• Self-employed forestry

worker• Employment with a forestry

contractor

• Forest craftsperson• Conservation work• Local Authority employee• Estate work• Employment with the

Forestry Commission• Employment with the

Woodland Trust

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths, Science and English, or a relevant Level 2 Diploma at merit level

• Mature students may be considered with alternative qualifications or experience

• Applicants must be aged 17 or over at the start of the course due to age restrictions on chainsaw use

Level 2 Diploma in

ARBORICULTURE

This course aims to train and prepare students to work in the tree care industry. It will give them the knowledge and skills to perform as a professional tree worker, who fully understands industry best practices.

Undertake work related experience in the land-based industries

Environmental and land-based business

Disposal of wood arisings and residues from work on trees – chippers and stump grinders

Establish trees and shrubs

Identify and select trees and shrubs

Carry out ground-based arboricultural operations

Undertake tree felling operations

Undertake tree climbing and pruning operations


• Climb a tree and perform aerial rescue

• Powered pole pruner • Use of chainsaw from a rope

and harness • Mobile Elevated Work

Platform (MEWP) • Stump grinder • Chipper

Is it for you?

Successful students will be committed to the course to ensure they have the maximum time available to learn the skills and knowledge required. They will be physically fit and prepared for the demanding nature of the work involved.

Duration

One year

Course facilities

We offer a vast array of equipment and work sites to ensure the training is as like ‘real life’ work situations as possible. The department also boasts a collaborative 60+ years’ industry experience for students to draw from; and has excellent links with companies all over the south of England.

You can also work towards additional qualifications if you can demonstrate ability above the level of the diploma (they may incur a small cost). These include:

• Chainsaw maintenance and crosscutting

• Small tree felling


• Continuing education: Level 3 Extended Diploma in Arboriculture

• Employment: Opportunities in the arboriculture industry as a climber or trainee climber, possible self-employment, utilities work

Entry Requirements

• Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including Maths and English, or a relevant Level 1 Diploma

• Applicants must be aged 17 or over at the start of the course due to age restrictions on chainsaw use and must be physically fit

Ryan GiannottiLevel 2 Diploma in Arboriculture

I didn’t enjoy school and when I heard about the course at Sparsholt I thought it sounds much more practical and more my kind of thing. I came over to see the College and thought how big it was, how clean and smart – good presentation. You could really see what goes on around the site.

I started on the Level 1 Diploma, which was great. You’re out and about all the time to do things like clearance work, so that was good. As soon as I started the course I knew I wanted to carry on to Level 2. At Level 1 you get shown both Arboriculture and Forestry options, and then for Level 2 you have to choose one. I chose Arboriculture as I liked the adrenaline of tree climbing. It is perfect for people who don’t mind heights! You learn more about trees, planting and identification, and one of our assignments was all about the financial side of running your own business.

The tutors were really helpful, you can go to them with any question or problem and they treat you with respect. You get more freedom than school, the food is good and the College shop is really handy. I’m now going to be working in Newbury with a tree services company and will be working on anything from fencing to all sorts of tree work. I got the contact through College.


Level 2 Diploma in FORESTRY

An extremely practical course covering many aspects of woodland work with an emphasis on developing a broad range of practical skills.

Those students who reach the in-course standard may then be able to take a range of National Proficiency Test Council Certificates of Competence, (these may incur additional costs payable to NPTC).

Work related experience in the land-based industries

Environmental and land-based business

Establish trees and shrubs

Felling and extraction of timber from woodlands

Understand and carry out silviculture and habitat management

Undertake tree felling operations

Course facilities

• There are some excellent practical facilities on the campus for chainsaw training and other mechanised operations, including a sawmill

• The College has an extensive range of practical worksites in the local area for tree planting, woodland maintenance operations, habitat management and timber felling and harvesting

• Two days each week are spent on these practical sites where students are instructed, trained and assessed

Is it for you?

Successful students will be prepared and committed to working outdoors, develop

a strong work ethic and will show good evidence of interest in the woodland work. They will be keen to investigate future job opportunities and take advantage of work experience when available.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Extended Diploma in

Forestry

Employment:• Contracting companies• Utility contracting• Local authorities• Conservation bodies• Self employed

Entry Requirements

• Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including Maths and English, or a relevant Level 1 Diploma

• Applicants must be physically fit


Level 1

LAND-BASED OPERATIONS – Woodland SkillsThis course is designed to enable students to receive an introduction and insight into the woodland and tree care related industries and establish a good set of basic skills in:

Habitat establishment and maintenance

Machinery skills

Forestry and tree care practice

Health and safety in woodland skills

Tractor driving and maintenance

Fencing and brick and block work

Planting and establishment of trees and shrubs

Preparation of woodland areas - coppice work

Assist with cross cutting and stacking – sawmilling and timber processing

You can also work towards the City and Guilds Level 2 award in tractor driving if you are able to demonstrate suitable ability and have achieved the requirements of the in course assessment.

Course facilities

The course is very practical and involves work in local Forestry Commission and private estates woodlands for worksites. The College has a sawmill and timber processing area where the students are able to learn how to operate different types of machinery to produce timber and timber products for use around the college grounds and estate.

Is it for you?

You will have a keen interest in the outdoors and working in all sort of conditions together with the will to learn about trees woodlands and practical skills is a good prerequisite for a successful student. The development of a good work ethic and good attendance and performance are the essentials for progression on to higher courses.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 2 or 3 qualifications in

Arboriculture• Level 2 or 3 qualifications in

Forestry

Employment:This introductory course leads on to further education and will set a basis for the likelihood of future employment in the Arboriculture and Woodland Industries.

Entry Requirements

Applicants would be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade E to F, and be recommended by their school.


CONSERVATION, COUNTRYSIDE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Learning Manager for Countryside Management and Fishery Studies

Caroline James PGCE, BSc (Hons).


Conservation and Wildlife Management

Level 3 Diploma in

Conservation and Wildlife Management

Level 2 Diploma in

British Nature Conservation

Other Wildlife and Countryside Management courses at Sparsholt College include:

Hedge laying | Stock fencing | Wildlife walks | Bushcraft | Waste awareness Environmental data and management | Bespoke tailored courses

BSc (Hons) in Ecology and Conservation Management (three years full-time) Foundation Degree in Ecology and Conservation Management (two years full-time, three years part-time)

Apprenticeship in Environmental Conservation A range of short courses relevant to game, wildlife and countryside management.

Please see our Higher Education full-time prospectus, part-time course guide or website for details.


Nature conservation and the management of wildlife has always been at the heart of

Sparsholt, and these courses provide the opportunity for both school leavers and people

looking for a change of career to build knowledge and demonstrate professionalism to

this important and growing sector.

Strong industry links, the depth of knowledge and expertise of our staff and outstanding natural facilities on our doorstep make Sparsholt College a natural choice for the study of habitat and rural resources management.

• College Home Farm, with its incorporated wildlife zones under the Countryside Stewardship scheme, and other developing habitat areas

• Wildlife Observation Unit, constructed walkway and ancient woodland area

• Fishing lake, attractive to wildlife and wetland species

• Deer park with a herd of Sika deer

• Game Unit for rearing pheasant and partridge

• Great links with the industry across the whole of the UK

The College has also established close links with a range of landowners throughout the country and has unprecedented access to a wide variety of sites, so that students can experience a diversity of wildlife and its management at first-hand.

Site visits and talks given by visiting speakers with extra expertise are integrated into our courses.


Careers Information

Work in the countryside is both challenging and rewarding, requiring high levels of commitment and dedication. And, while working hours may be long, the rewards and job satisfaction are high. Working for charities and other voluntary groups is one employment opportunity, as well as self-employment or working for industry groups or businesses.

There is a growing awareness of environmental issues generally, and recent national and European legislation has placed a greater emphasis on ecological and countryside access issues. Specialist knowledge and skills are increasingly sought after.

There are opportunities for employment at a practical, technical and managerial level in a wide diversity of environments, from community-based urban sites to specialist habitats in rural areas including:

• Statutory conservation bodies e.g. Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage, Environment Agency, Forestry Commission

• Local Government Authorities

• National Parks Authorities• Charitable conservation

organisations e.g. RSPB, Wildlife Trusts, National Trust, BTCV

• Ecological consultancies• Private estates

Changes in agriculture are resulting in opportunities for countryside rangers who understand the techniques of balancing the needs of the environment, local community, and rural economy. There is a steady turnover of positions at a practical/technical level, especially within the larger organisations where career progression is well established.

Environmental sustainability is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK and there is a demand for fresh, innovative thinkers in the industry.

At a time when employment has been falling, the number of ‘green jobs’ has continued to rise and it has been an area

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targeted by the Government for growth. There is a skills gap in industry. Businesses need to meet sustainability targets to keep ahead in their sectors, and in order to do that they need people with skills and experience of sustainability.

Range of Work Available

• Reserve Warden, Assistant Warden, Site Manager

• Countryside Ranger• Estate Worker• Interpretation Officer• Environmental Education

Officer• Rights Of Way Officer• Ecological Consultant• Ecological Surveyor• Specialist Contractor• Volunteer Co-ordinator

Further information

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM)Winchester SO23 9EH01962 868626www.ieem.net

The Wildlife TrustsNewark NG24 1WT01636 677711www.wildlifetrusts.org

Dave LockTutor, Conservation

As a Sparsholt graduate himself, Dave is dedicated to sharing his knowledge of British habitats and species with his students. His knowledge and passion is built from working on both national and international conservation projects and he has particular interest in Applied Ecology, Practical Habitat Management, Environmental Science and Ornithology.

“My role at Sparsholt gives me the privilege to explore fascinating subject areas with groups of interesting young people. It is this more than anything else that makes my job incredibly enjoyable and rewarding”.



CONSERVATION AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENTThis course consists of study units covering the ecology and practical management of all the major habitat types in Britain and is a combination of practical and theoretical work.


Student work placements with Conservation organisations in years 1 and 2 are an integral and exciting part of the course. The work placements combined with regular field trips and practical work on local sites provide opportunities to meet and work alongside those employed in the industry.

Fascinating study tours to the Cairngorms, Snowdonia and London complete the study of the major British habitats.

Wildlife population surveys, ecology and conservation

Woodland, farm, grassland, heathland, water and urban habitat management

Estate skills

Ecology of game species and deer management

Industry placement


Livestock use in conservation management

Environmental interpretation in land-based industries

Course facilities

The (450Ha) college estate itself provides an essential study resource, in addition to the workshop and chainsaw training facilities at the Game and Wildlife Centre. Course lecturers also have strong links with Conservation organisations including the National Trust, RSPB, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and Hampshire County Council, who are all potential employers of students successfully completing the course.

Is it for you?

A successful student will display a high level of interest and commitment to both the course and any external conservation work placements or volunteer work that you undertake. No prior experience is required but a keen interest in British nature and the countryside is essential. Practical tasks and working outdoors coupled with relevant theory teaching will equip you with the skills required to enter a range of employment opportunities.


• Certificate of Competence in Brushcutting Operations

• Award in the Safe Use of Pesticides (Knapsack sprayer)

• Level 3 Award in the Management of Volunteers

Duration

Two years



Continuing education could include University level degree courses in• Ecology and Conservation• Environmental and

Sustainability Management

Employment:• Reserve Warden or Assistant

Warden, Countryside ranger• Interpretation Officer• Environmental Education

Officer• Ecological Consultant or

surveyor• Countryside Recreation

Officer• Countryside Campaigner• Specialist Contractor• Volunteer Co-ordinator

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and a Science, or a Level 2 Diploma at merit level.

Vikki Gallagher(Pictured far right)

Extended Diploma in Countryside Management

I was looking for a career change and the reputation of the College encouraged me to apply. I looked at the website and applied online. When I came to visit I was really impressed by the size of the estate and the facilities for all courses – it was a lot larger than I expected! Our induction was good, and also included information about the many leisure facilities.

I very much enjoyed the practical side of the course and gaining the work-based knowledge and ‘tickets’. I’ve volunteered with people who have studied similar courses via distance learning and they don’t always have the practical skills to carry out the work. My work placements were with the Hampshire County Council Countryside Ranger Service and the RSPB in Scotland, where we had previously visited for a study trip.

The lecturers are all very knowledgeable and competent, with their own industry experience. They understand how the industry works so you can pick their brains. The course is hard work but the College offers so much opportunity and industry links, so use them! After my course I have been offered work with the National Trust for summer. My previous career was in archaeology so I feel I have added to these skills. Ideally I would like to work as a Countryside Ranger or ultimately a Project Officer for an organisation such as Natural England.


Level 3 Diploma in

CONSERVATION AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT This exciting course consists of twelve study units covering the ecology and practical management of all the major habitat types in Britain, with an emphasis on developing practical skills.


Student work placements with Conservation organisations in Years 1 and 2 are an integral part of the course. The work placements combined with regular field trips and practical work on local sites, provide opportunities to meet and work alongside those employed in the industry.

Study tours to the Cairngorms, Snowdonia and London complete the study of the major British habitats.

Wildlife population surveys, ecology and conservation

Estate skills, chainsaw and machinery operation

Coastal, urban woodland, grassland, heathland and freshwater habitats

Farm habitat management

Urban habitat management

Industry placement

Livestock use in conservation management

Course facilities

The College estate itself provides an essential study resource, in addition to the workshop and chainsaw training facilities at the Game and Wildlife Centre. Course lecturers also have strong links with Conservation organisations including the National Trust, RSPB, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and Hampshire County Council, who are all potential employers of students successfully completing the course.

You can also work towards an additional qualification such as the Level 3 Award in the Management of Volunteers

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• University level degree

courses such as Ecology, Wildlife Management or Environmental Science

Employment:• Assistant Conservation

Officer• Nature Reserve Warden• Countryside Ranger• Ecological Surveyor• Environmental Education

Office• Sustainability Consultant

Is it for you?

A successful student will display a high level of interest and commitment to both the course and any external conservation work placements or volunteer work that you undertake. No prior experience is required but a keen interest in British nature and the countryside is essential. Practical tasks and working outdoors coupled with relevant theory teaching will equip you with the skills required to enter a range of employment opportunities.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English and a related science subject, or a Level 2 Diploma with a minimum of 2 units at merit.


Level 2 Diploma in

BRITISH NATURE CONSERVATION

This course consists of units covering the conservation and practical management of all the major habitat types in Britain, and is a combination of practical and theoretical work.


Students will complete work related activities off-site with conservation organisations as well as on the College Estate to develop a range of practical skills, plus a work placement towards the end of the course.

British Wildlife and Habitats

Nature Conservation

Environmental Science

Practical Estate Skills

Countryside Industry and work experience

Course facilities

The College estate itself provides an essential study resource, in addition to the workshop facilities at the Game and Wildlife Centre. Course lecturers also have strong links with Conservation organisations including the National Trust, RSPB, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and Hampshire County Council, who are all potential employers of students successfully completing the course.

Duration

One year


• Tractor Driving• Maths and English


Continuing education:• Level 3 Diploma or Extended

Diploma in Conservation and Wildlife Management

• Level 2 Apprenticeship in Environmental Conservation

Employment:• Reserve Warden or Assistant

Warden, Countryside ranger• Countryside Recreation

Assistant• Countryside Campaigner• Volunteer Co-ordinator

Is it for you?

A successful student will display a high level of interest and commitment to both the course and any external conservation work placements or volunteer work that you undertake. No prior experience is required but a keen interest in British nature and the countryside is essential

plus an enthusiasm to work outdoors. On completion you will have gained a range of practical and theoretical skills, have developed your Maths, English and IT skills and be prepared and ready to progress into further education or employment.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above ideally including English and Maths, or a Level 1 Diploma in a relevant subject plus satisfactory performance in English and Maths supported by a good school or college reference.


EQUINE STUDIES Learning Manager Kathy Bamber BA, PGCE, BHSII

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horse Management

Level 3 Diploma in Horse Management

Level 3 Diploma in Horse Management (non-riding option)

Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care

Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care (non-riding option)

Level 1 Diploma in Horse Care

Level 1 Diploma in Horse Care (non-riding option)

Other Equine Studies courses at Sparsholt College include:

BSc (Hons) Equine Studies (three years full-time) | BSc (Hons) Equine Science (three years full-time)

FdSc Equine Studies (two years full-time) | Level 2 and 3 Apprenticeship in Horse Care

A range of short courses for horse owners; e.g. Horse Owners Level 1, 2 and 3, BHS preparation and various

introductory horse husbandry days.

Please see our Higher Education prospectus, our part-time courses guide or our website for details.


Sparsholt College Equine CentreThe Equine Centre is a BHS approved exam centre endorsed by the ‘Where to Train’

guide which provides modern teaching facilities for equine students. It has been

awarded British Dressage Venue of the Year for two consecutive years and was selected

by the Australian Paralympic Equestrian Team as their Pre-Games Training Camp for the

2012 London Olympics.

The Equine Centre resources include:

• Stabling for up to 75 horses

• Indoor arena (60 X 23m)

• 3 Outdoor arenas (60 X 30m, 60 X 30m, 70 X 50m)

• Covered horse-walker

• Grass rides

• Cross country schooling fences

• Weigh bridge

• Full sized equine skeleton

• BHS riding instruction towards course requirements

• BHS practical instruction towards course requirements

• Extra full cost courses including BHS exam preparation, horse owners courses,

clipping, equine first aid and lots more

• DIY student livery


A wide and diverse range of horses at the Equine Centre are carefully selected by either purchase or loan to provide students with the means to develop their riding skills under instruction. Riding is taught in groups and students are regularly assessed to ensure safe and effective progression within the riding units.

All members of the Equine teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry.

During evenings, weekends and holidays, the Equine Centre also plays host to a variety of shows, events, training camps, corporate training, festivals and short courses. This provides students with an opportunity to better understand the world of equestrian competition and BHS training standards.


Equine Careers

The equine industry attracts 4.3 million riders and provides direct and indirect employment for up to a quarter of a million people in the UK. Our students have successfully gained employment in a range of occupations from grooms, assistant centre managers, stud workers, instructors, journalists, equine veterinary nurse, equine business and sales positions both in the UK and overseas. For some students they decide to continue studying here by enrolling on a Higher Education course or at another college or university.

Employers not only want to see applications with good qualifications, but also additional skills and work experience, hence we use our resources on site not only for formal training but for our students to gain solid work experience in the form of centre duties during the duration of their course.

Those students who are well motivated and give their course 100% leave here well prepared to start a career within the equine industry.

Further Information:

National Careers Servicehttps://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Careers in Racingwww.careersinracing.com

British Horse Societywww.bhs.org.uk



HORSE MANAGEMENTThis Extended Diploma will provide you with the opportunity to gain detailed academic knowledge and an in-depth understanding of horse management and equitation through theory-based and practical sessions. The equine facilities on site will help to bring your academic studies to life, enabling you to put into practice what you have learnt in the classroom by riding and caring for the horses and taking part in activities such as involvement in shows and events apart from your timetabled practical sessions.


Whilst studying on this course you will be required to complete a three week work placement during the second year of the programme; we have industrial links with organisations and businesses providing a broad range of placements.

During the course, there will be opportunities for off site visits and trips giving you an interesting insight into the industry. In the first year of the course there is a study tour to Newmarket and in the second year to Ireland where you will visit top class breeding operations, training centres, Tattersall’s Three Day Event to name a few.

Riding and husbandry

Equine health and welfare

Principles of animal biology

Equine anatomy and physiology

Training horses for different disciplines

Riding on the flat and over fences

Competition grooming

Equestrian event management

Equine behaviour and welfare

Equine science and nutrition

Course facilities

The Equine Centre is a British Horse Society approved training and examination centre endorsed by the ‘Where to train guide ’which provides modern training facilities for equine students. It was awarded British Dressage Venue of the year two years running and during August 2012 the Australian Equestrian Paralympic team used the facilities and services for their Pre-Games Training Camp.

The Equine Centre has a full calendar of events and competitions throughout the year which students are encouraged to be involved with.

The teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry, the section also prides itself with the links it has to the industry which benefits the overall student experience.


Is it for you?

You will need to be self-motivated, enthusiastic, able to use own initiative and common sense in a range of situations, be a team player as well as being healthy and physically fit. Studying an equine course at Sparsholt College will prepare you for a career in an industry which constantly needs well trained, educated and committed individuals.

You can also work towards additional BHS Stage Examinations.

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Higher education at

Foundation degree or full Honours degree dependent on your overall achievement

• BSc (Hons) Equine Studies, BSc (Hons) Equine Science and FdSc Equine Studies offered at Sparsholt College

Employment:• Competition groom or rider• Riding instructor

I visited the College with my school years ago

and thought it would be a great place to study.

I started on the Diploma course, for which

I got a triple distinction. I was then offered

an Apprenticeship, which took 18 months to

complete, and I’m now working as a Technician at

the College’s Equine Centre and am continuing to

learn all the time!

The Diploma course was a good balance of theory

and practical experience and you can also study

for extra qualifications such as BHS Level 1 at the

same time. I lived on site as a student, which made

me grow up a lot. I made a lot of friends and it was

very sociable and fun.

The Apprenticeship was also a good way of

learning whilst working on the yard. There was a

lot of support from tutors, the yard staff and my

Apprenticeship Liaison Officer, which helped make it easy to complete.

The Equine facilities were good to start with and have only improved over the years I’ve been

here, with more and more resources. As a Technician I really enjoy working with the students

and horses. The staff really keep me motivated and there is a good variety of horses.

• Stud manager and associated staff

• Stable manager and associated staff

• Equine Veterinary Nurse or technician

• Equine nutritionist• Journalist• Retail• Event management

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English and Maths, or a Level 2 Diploma in Horse Management at merit level.


Course facilities


The Equine Centre has a full calendar of events and

common sense in a range of situations, be a team player as well as being healthy and physically fit.

Studying an equine course at Sparsholt College will prepare you for a career in an industry which constantly needs well trained, educated and committed individuals.


Duration

Two years

competitions throughout the year which studentsare encouraged to be involved with.

The teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry. The section prides itself with the links it has to the industry which benefits the overall student experience.

Is it for you?

You will need to be self-motivated, enthusiastic, able to use own initiative and

Level 3 Diploma in

HORSE MANAGEMENT

The course will deliver sound practical skills and technical knowledge in managing horses in a range of situations. There is a strong emphasis on developing riding and practical skills through training at the Equine Centre which is underpinned by lectures in theory units. This is a more hands on practical course than the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma programme.


Whilst studying on this course you will be required to complete a three week work placement during the second year of the programme, we have industrial links with organisations and businesses providing a broad range of placements.

The course team will arrange off site visits and trips giving you an interesting insight into the industry. In the first year of the course there is a study tour to Newmarket and in the second year to Ireland where you will visit top class breeding operations, training centres, Tattersall’s Three Day Event and other interesting organisations.

Equine centre riding and husbandry





Riding on the flat and over fences

Competition grooming




Level 3 Diploma in

HORSE MANAGEMENT (non-riding option)

This course meets the needs of non-riding industry professionals by providing sound practical skills and technical knowledge in managing horses and personnel in a range of situations. There is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills through training at the Equine Centre which is underpinned by lectures in theory units.

This is a more hands on practical course in comparison to the BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma programme.


Whilst studying on this course you will be required to complete a three week work placement during the second year of the programme, we have industrial links with organisations and businesses providing a broad range of placements.

During the course the course team will arrange off site visits and trips giving you an interesting insight into the industry. In the first year of the course there is a study tour to Newmarket and in the second year to Ireland where you will visit top class breeding operations, training centres, Tattersall’s Three Day Event and other interesting organisations.

Equine centre duties and husbandry





Equine presentation and husbandry





Continuing education:• Higher Education at



Employment:• Competition groom or rider• Riding instructor• Stud manager and

associated staff• Stable manager and

associated staff• Equine Veterinary Nurse or

technician• Equine nutritionist• Journalist• Retail• Event management

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, or a Level 2 Diploma in Horse Management with at least two units at merit level.


Course facilities



The teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry. The section

prides itself with the links it has to the industry which benefits the overall student experience.


Continuing education:• Higher Education at



Employment:• Competition groom• Riding instructor• Stud manager and

associated staff• Stable manager and

associated staff• Equine Veterinary Nurse or

technician• Equine nutritionist• Journalist• Retail• Event management

Is it for you?

You will need to be self-motivated, enthusiastic, able to use own initiative and common sense in a range of situations, be a team player as well as being healthy and fit.


Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, or a Level 2 Diploma in Horse Management with at least two units at merit level.

Duration

Two years


Level 2 Diploma in

HORSE CARE

Enhancing your practical skills and future employability, this course is ideal for those students seeking a career in the horse industry or who wish to progress onto a higher level course. You will learn how to handle and understand a variety of horses as well as develop your riding, horse husbandry and communication skills backed up by the lecture based theory classes such as principles of horse biology.


During the course you will visit a variety of equine businesses which will give you a real insight into the industry, trips to International competitions will be arranged throughout the year open to your group.

Equine Centre duties

Horse handling and husbandry

Caring for competition horses

Riding horses

Principles of horse biology

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as:

BHS Stage Exams

BHS Riding and Road Safety Test

Course facilities




Is it for you?

You will need to be self-motivated, enthusiastic, able to use own initiative and common sense in a range of situations, be a team player as well as being healthy and fit.


Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Diploma in Horse

Management

Employment:• Groom• Competition groom• Yard assistant• Stud worker

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a Level 1 Diploma. Plus a successful interview in which riding skills are also assessed.


Level 2 Diploma in

HORSE CARE (non-riding option) Enhancing your practical skills and future employability, this course is ideal for those students seeking a career in the horse industry or who wish to progress onto a higher level course. You will learn how to handle and understand a variety of horses as well as develop your riding, horse husbandry and communication skills backed up by the lecture based theory classes such as principles of horse biology.



Equine centre duties

Horse handling and husbandry

Caring for competition horses

Maintain horse equipment

Principles of horse biology

Course facilities




Is it for you?

You will be an enthusiastic, well-motivated, team player, able to use own initiative and have a strong desire to work in the equine industry.

Studying an equine course at Sparsholt College will prepare you for a career in an industry which needs well trained, educated and committed individuals.

Duration

One year


Continuing education: • Level 3 Diploma in Horse

Management

Employment: • Groom • Competition groom • Yard assistant • Stud worker

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a Level 1 Diploma.


Level 1 Diploma in

HORSE CARE

This highly practical course is an ideal starting point for those students with little or no formal qualifications. It provides the practical skills and essential theory to prepare committed students for further study or to start a career with horses. Much of the course is practical during timetabled sessions at the Equine Centre where you will learn practical skills, horse handling techniques and management skills which are linked to the classroom based theory sessions.



Equine industry experience

Husbandry and horse care

Riding

Feeding and watering

Horse health

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as

NOCN Level 1

Functional Skills


The teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry.

Is it for you?



Duration

One year

Course facilities

The Equine Centre is a British Horse Society approved training and examination centre endorsed by the ‘Where to train guide’ which provides modern training facilities for equine students. It was awarded British Dressage Venue of the year two years running and during August 2012 the Australian Equestrian Paralympic team used the facilities and services for their Pre-Games Training Camp.

The Equine Centre is run as a commercial show centre and has a full calendar of events and competitions throughout the year which students are encouraged to beinvolved with.



Care


Entry Requirements

Two GCSEs at Grade E or above, or evidence of studying at Entry Level 3. Plus a successful interview in which riding skills are also assessed.


Level 1 Diploma in

HORSE CARE (non-riding option)This highly practical course is an ideal starting point for those students with little or no formal qualifications. It provides the practical skills and essential theory to prepare committed students for further study or to start a career with horses. Much of the course is practical during timetabled sessions at the Equine Centre where you will learn practical skills, horse handling techniques and management skills which are linked to the classroom based theory sessions.


During the course you will visit a variety of equine businesses which will give you a real insight into the industry, trips to International competitions will be arranged throughout the year open to your group

Equine industry experience

Husbandry and horse care

Feeding and watering

Horse health

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as

NOCN Level 1

Functional Skills

Course facilities


The Equine Centre is not a commercial riding school and is not resourced to provide instruction to external clients, however it is run as a commercial show centre and has a full calendar of events and competitions throughout

the year which students are encouraged to be involved with.

The teaching team are BHS qualified and many have extensive employment and competitive experience in the equine industry.

Is it for you?



Duration

One year



Care


Entry Requirements

Two GCSEs at Grade E or above, or evidence of studying at Entry Level 3, plus a successful interview.


FISHERY STUDIES AND AQUATICS

Learning Manager for Fishery Studies Caroline James PGCE, BSc (Hons)

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Fish Management

Level 3 Diploma in Fish Management

Level 2 Diploma in Fish Management

Level 1 Diploma in Fishery Studies

The College also offers higher education courses in Fishery Studies, as well as part-time courses for members of industry and enthusiastic amateurs, including:

BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management (three years full-time) Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Sport Fisheries and Aquaculture (two years full-time or three years part-time)

Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Marine Ecology and Conservation (two years full-time or three years part-time) Aquatics and Ornamental Fish Husbandry (short course series)

Sport Fisheries Management (short course series) | Angling coaching awards at Level 1 and Level 2

Please see our Higher Education and part-time courses prospectuses, or our website for details.


Fishery Studies and Aquatics The industry knows that Sparsholt offers the best training for a career working with

freshwater fisheries and fish farming, and exotic and ornamental fish. The College’s

outstanding fish facilities are used extensively by the students for practical training and

project work and can be divided into three main areas:

National Aquatics Training Centre

• The National Aquatics Training Centre is a purpose built teaching facility, unrivalled in the UK. The 650m2 purpose-built fish-house holds stocks of carp, catfish, tilapia, barramundi and a massive range of ornamental species in high-tech tanks and aquaria.

• The building also features a large indoor koi pool, research areas and industry-standard holding systems, many sponsored by industrial contacts

• Marine habitats have been recreated to replicate a range of ecological systems, whilst the recent addition of conservation species provides a broad spectrum of experience


Salmonid rearing and trials centre

• The newly built £0.5million salmonid rearing and trials centre, provides a state of the art facility for rearing cold water species. Supplied by borehole water, the site produces brown trout for restocking and rainbow trout and Arctic char for the table.

• It also provides a site for a number of commercial trials on fish feed for the largest fish nutrition manufacturers in Britain


The Sparsholt Fishery

• A beautiful one-hectare lake, fed by water from the fish hatchery, that holds stocks of carp, roach, rudd, bream, crucian carp, tench, chub, barbel and perch is used for practical fishery management training and on-site angling.

• Students fish this lake as part of their course or recreationally on a day or season ticket basis

The area has excellent contacts with sport fisheries across much of England and with teaching delivered by expert staff you will get the opportunity to carry out fishery management with Linear Fisheries and Broadlands Lake as well as fisheries the length of our legendary local Rivers Test and Itchen. If you read the fish magazines, you’ll know many of the staff already!

Access to public aquaria and ornamental retail outlets – including Sealife centres, Bristol Zoo and Maidenhead Aquatics – complements the Aquatics pathway where students have the opportunity to be involved in practical projects.

Industry experience is a key element of all the courses and students can make use of the strong contacts the College has giving unparalleled access to fish farms, fisheries, public aquaria and government organisations throughout the UK.

For updates and images on the work of our Fishery Studies students, take a look at the newsletters on the College website.


Careers Information

Sparsholt-trained applicants are regularly well placed for jobs in the Fisheries and Aquaculture industries as a result of the reputation that the College holds in the industry.

Potential employees need to be committed fish enthusiasts prepared to work long, and sometimes irregular, hours in jobs that are challenging but highly rewarding.

Prospective employees are more employable if they have other relevant skills, in particular engineering, construction and general DIY and IT skills. In both fish farming and fishery management, good communication skills are essential when dealing with customers.

It is estimated that around 10,000 people are employed nationwide in work associated with ornamental fish.

Of the 2,000 outlets selling aquatic plants and fish, most are owner-managed although the number of multiple retail chains is increasing. There is a strong demand for trained assistants and managers in this sector, especially in the garden centres and retail chains.


• Farming of salmon, trout, carp, ornamentals and some marine species

• River bailiff• Sport fisheries management• Environment Agency and Rivers Trusts• Science officer• Fish nutrition• Fish retail and wholesale• Public display aquaria• Education officer• Research and overseas development work• Own business, for example in pond

construction or aquarium installation and maintenance

Further Career Information

Institute of Fisheries ManagementNottingham NG2 7LP01159 822317www.ifm.org.uk

LANTRAwww.lantra.co.uk/Industries/Fisheries-Management.aspx



FISH MANAGEMENT

This course will deliver an exciting blend of practical and theory based teaching covering a wide range of fishery and aquatics related subjects.


The course includes one period of work placement per year covering a three-week block in your chosen area of interest within the industry. Regular off-site practicals and industry visits complement the theory teaching and allow students to develop valuable industry contact opportunities.

Additionally, external speakers from within the industry regularly support the course content and specialist end of year trips reward progress and achievement.

Fish biology and the science of water quality

Fish farming and breeding including cyprinids and warmwater marine species

Pond design, installation and maintenance

Environmental management and maintenance

Industry experience

Optional pathways

All fishery management students will study the core units together and then select an optional pathway in both the first and second year which may include;

• Fishery management including stillwater and rivers and the angling industry

• Aquatics management, aquarium systems and exotic animal husbandry

Course facilities

Students will be taught in the College’s specialist units including the aquatics centre,

fish farm and college lake. Regular off-site practicals will be done at a variety of local rivers, lakes, ponds, aquaria and fishery businesses including retail outlets. Teaching is provided by a team of industry experts with in-depth knowledge and experience.

Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as part of a team. Prior knowledge or experience is not essential but a keen interest in all things aquatic is a vital ingredient to

success. On completion you will be able to demonstrate a wide range of skills across the whole industry from aquatics and aquascaping through sport fishery management to marine, carp, salmonid and ornamental fish farming.

You can also work towards additional qualification such as:

• Tractor driving• Fishery and aquatics industry

skills• Angling Coaching award• Aquarium maintenance skills


Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Foundation degree in Sport

fisheries and Aquaculture• Foundation degree in Marine

Ecology and Conservation• BSc (Hons) in Aquaculture

and Fishery Management• BSc (Hons) in Marine

Biology, Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Zoology

Employment:• Assistant fishery manager• Assistant fish farm manager• Environment agency

technician• River keeper• Water bailiff• Tackle and bait retail and

manufacturing• Angling coach• Pond design and building• Aquatic retail industry • Fish wholesalers • Public aquaria • Research and conservation • Aquarium design and

installation • Product marketing and

development

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and a Science, or a Level 2 Diploma at merit level.

Oscar BoatfieldExtended Diploma in Fish Management (Sport Fisheries)

I chose to study this course due to my love of fly fishing and interest in the conservation of the countryside, in particular the protection and rejuvenation of river systems. My brother had studied here previously and really enjoyed it, so I felt it was also ‘tried and tested’.

Being a residential student I had the opportunity to live with some great people with similar interests. The course provided a lot of knowledge that will help me in the fisheries industry. I enjoyed several work placements, including three weeks on a salmon farm in Scotland, after which I was offered a job. The fishery facilities at College are the best you could find, with the on-site lake, incredible salmonid rearing centre and the National Aquatic Training Centre.

I am a member of the England Youth Fly Fishing team and the College has supported me in this. The tutors are amazing, and just being in this area has given me such a network of contacts in the industry that I feel I could find work wherever I go in the future. I hope to become a fly fishing guide alongside working on river restoration projects throughout the UK.


Level 3 Diploma in FISH MANAGEMENT

This course, equivalent to two A Levels, will deliver an exciting blend of practical and theory based teaching covering a wide range of fishery and aquatics related subjects.


The course includes one period of work placement per year covering a three-week block in your chosen area of interest within the industry. Regular off-site practicals and industry visits complement the theory teaching and allow students to develop valuable industry contact opportunities.

Additionally external speakers from within the industry regularly support the course content and specialist end of year trips reward progress and achievement.

Fish biology and the science of water quality

Fish farming and breeding

Pond design, installation and maintenance

Environmental management and maintenance

Industry experience

Optional pathways:All fishery management students will study the core units together and then select an optional pathway in both the first and second year which may include:

Fishery management including stillwater and rivers and the angling industry

Aquatics management, aquarium systems and exotic animal husbandry


Course facilities

Students will be taught in the College’s specialist units including the aquatics centre, fish farm and college lake. Regular off-site practicals will be done at a variety of local rivers, lakes, ponds, aquaria and fishery businesses including retail outlets. Teaching is provided by a team of industry experts with in-depth knowledge and experience.

Is it for you?

A successful student will require enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work individually or as part of a team. Prior knowledge or experience is not essential but a keen interest in all things aquatic is a vital ingredient to success. On completion you will be able to demonstrate a wide range of skills across the whole industry from aquatics

and aquascaping through sport fishery management to marine, carp, salmonid and ornamental fish farming.


• Tractor driving• Fishery and aquatics industry

skills• Angling Coaching award• Aquarium maintenance skills• Maths or English

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• Foundation degree in Sport

fisheries and Aquaculture• Foundation degree in Marine

Ecology and Conservation• BSc (Hons) in Aquaculture

and Fishery Management

• BSc (Hons) in Marine Biology, Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Zoology

Employment:• Assistant fishery manager• Assistant fish farm manager• Environment agency

technician• River keeper• Water bailiff• Tackle and bait retail and

manufacturing• Angling coach• Pond design and building• Aquatic retail industry • Fish wholesalers • Public aquaria • Research and conservation • Aquarium design and

installation • Product marketing and

development

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above, two of which should be in English, Maths, or Science, or a Level 2 Diploma with a minimum of 2 units at merit.


Level 2 Diploma in FISH MANAGEMENT

This course will deliver an introduction for school leavers into the theory behind the fishery management industry and then to develop their practical fishery management skills.


Throughout the course of the year students are involved in a range of practical activities at fish farms, local rivers and stillwater fisheries. A period of work experience towards the end of the course enables students to put their acquired knowledge and skills into practise, gain valuable employer contacts and potentially gain employment.

Work experience and industry organisation

Fish science

Fish farming

Sports fishery management, maintenance and angling

Course facilities

Students will be taught in the College’s specialist units including the aquatics centre, fish farm and college lake. Regular off-site practicals will be done at a variety of local rivers, lakes and fishery businesses. Teaching is provided by a team of industry experts with in-depth knowledge and experience.

Is it for you?

Whilst previous relevant experience is an advantage it is not essential, a successful student will be expected to have a keen interest in fishery subjects and a commitment to coursework. On completion you will have gained a range of practical and theoretical skills, have developed your Maths, English and IT skills and be competent to progress

into further education or employment.

You can also work towards additional qualifications such as: • Fisheries management• English and Maths

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Diploma in Fishery

Management: sport fishery or ornamental pathways available.

• Level 2 Apprenticeship in Fish Management

Employment:• Trout, carp or ornamental

fish farms,• Sport fisheries• Aquatic retail shops

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above ideally including English and Maths, or a Level 1 Diploma plus satisfactory performance in English and Maths supported by a good school or college reference.


Level 1 Diploma in

FISHERY STUDIESAn introduction to the feeding, handling, movement and welfare of fish whilst developing employability and communication skills. Students will gain confidence in IT, English and Maths through working with fish.


The course enables students to gain a wide ranging experience of different sectors of the fish industry including sports fishery management, fish farming, rivers, lakes and ornamental fish keeping through a series of structured visits. You will also be involved in off-site practicals with groups of Higher Education students to develop your ability to work as part of a team and under supervision.

Fish farming and sports fishery management

Countryside maintenance skills

Team work and communication

Progression and personal development

Maths and English


Course facilities

Students will be taught in the College’s specialist units including the aquatics centre, fish farm and college lake. Regular off-site practicals will be done at a variety of local rivers, lakes and fishery businesses. Teaching is provided by a team of industry experts with in-depth knowledge and experience.

Is it for you?

A successful student will have prior interest in fish or aquatics, will be committed to learning more about the industry and be keen to develop their personal and practical skills. On completion you will have the knowledge to look after fish in a range of different environments and understand the basic industry requirements

with increased levels of confidence to progress in to further education or employment.


• Tractor driving • Fishery industry skills• English and Maths

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 2 Diploma in Fish

Management• Level 2 Diploma in other

landbased areas• Level 2 Apprenticeship in

Fish Management

Employment:An introductory course that leads to further education and ultimately employment as a fish farm worker, retail assistant in an aquatics shop or assistant at a sport fishery.

Entry Requirements

GCSEs grades D to G or equivalent qualifications, supported by a good school reference.


FOUNDATION STUDIES PROGRAMME (FSP)

Learning Manager Christine Bridger BAEd (Hons) AIMgt

This programme of courses provides a unique learning experience for students who are working, with support, at Entry Level. The Foundation Studies Programme is a varied and stimulating opportunity to study for those who have an interest in improving their personal social development skills (PSD), while working with plants, small animals, livestock or horses.

Students enjoy learning on this course and receive a high level of support, in small learning groups, to enable them to develop their confidence and social skills, while improving their personal social skills, with an opportunity to take part in a varied programme of activities, including sport, life skills and cooking, as well gaining vocational skills.

Students have an experienced Course Tutor to help them settle into the course, in familiar FLP class rooms for each Tutor Group. Practical skills are taught in small supported learning groups, in outstanding purpose-built campus facilities in agriculture, horticulture, animal care and equine.

The programme focuses on:

• Individual learning programmes•Building self-confidence through achievable goals•Hands on practical activities•Varied enrichment programme•High levels of pastoral support•Working in small groups•Health and well-being activities• Enrichment days: In addition to the Foundation Studies programme

there are Enrichment Days, which are funded by the student, open to all Foundation Studies students.


“Sparsholt is brilliant!”

Harry Evans Entry Level 1

I thought Sparsholt was the best course

with the best support.

Aiden Poore Entry Level 2, Life Skills

I like the countryside and have enjoyed looking after the rabbits

and seeing sheep being born. Sparsholt is friendly, fun and interesting.

Patrick Macleod-Brudenell Entry Level 2 - Vocational

I enjoy working with animals and have wanted to attend Sparsholt since Year

9, when I heard about it through an open day and at school. I have enjoyed the

practical work in animal care, and working with pigs for the first time. I would

like to carry on studying the Entry Level 3 course in Animal Care at Sparsholt and

work in a rescue centre for animals in the future.

Joanna Bellamy Entry Level 3 (Agriculture)

I came to Sparsholt to learn more skills. I have

enjoyed making new friends. Sparsholt is fun and

different. I am now going on to study

Level 1 Horticulture.

Thomas Moore-Morton

Entry Level 3 (Animal Care)

Sparsholt has really decent facilities and it is quiet enough to think. I have

enjoyed interacting with different people and found it educational, interesting

and individual. I am hoping to move on to study Level 1 Animal Care here next.


FOUNDATION LAND-BASED PROGRAMME

Is it for you?

The Foundation Land-based Programme–or FLP – is suitable for students with learning difficulties and disabilities, who need the small supported groups and high levels of pastoral care that the Foundation Landbased Courses can offer. Students must be interested in the vocational area, and be prepared to work outside.

These Entry Level course are designed to help students to enjoy learning through achievement, and will help to develop learning and social skills for students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Students will complete vocationally orientated qualifications, as well as literacy, numeracy and independent living qualifications at a suitable level.


The courses designed to offer plenty of opportunity to develop confidence and social skills, and will include trips to local places of interest and activities suitable for students at this level.

Support from the team

The Foundation Land-based Courses are designed to benefit students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Staff are trained and experienced in working with students with a range of difficulties, and the average group size of 6-8 students, with at least two staff

per group, provides plenty of opportunity for students to gain practical experience of vocational areas, and achieve life skills qualifications.

In addition, the course structure can provide pastoral support at break and lunchtimes if necessary, and a team of Student Support Assistants are able to help students access their transport arrangements at the end of the day.

How long is an FLC programme?

One year

Entry Requirements

Good reference, a genuine interest in the vocational subject, and attendance on an FLC taster session and interview – to be arranged with an FLC course tutor.

Entry Level 1 Life Skills

Students will undertake a programme of study containing a range of qualifications including a selection from the following:

• Asdan Diploma in Personal Progress – Entry 1

• OCR Certificate in Life and Living – Entry 1

Students will have access to the College farm, animal management units and horticultural facilities in addition to the life skills facilities in order to achieve these qualifications.

Course facilities

The Entry Level 1 Life Skills group will use the extensive College facilities for their qualifications, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff to gain their life skills qualifications.


Subject to an end of year review with your course tutor, you could progress onto an Entry level course within the Foundation Land-based Programme or onto further education or training.

Entry Level 2 Life Skills

Students will undertake a programme of study containing two main qualifications:

• Ascentis Entry Level 2 Certificate in Life Skills

• OCR Extended Certificate in Life and Living Skills Entry 1

Students will have access to the College farm, animal management units and horticultural facilities in addition to the life skills facilities in order to achieve these qualifications.

The programme also incorporates health and safety units and literacy and numeracy qualifications at the appropriate level for the student.


Course facilities

The FLC Entry Level 2 Life Skills group will use the extensive College facilities for vocational work, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff to gain their life skills qualifications.



Entry Level 3 Life Skills (NEW COURSE)

Students will undertake a programme of study containing two main qualifications:• OCR Diploma in Life and

Living Skills Entry 3• NPTC vocational Award –

Entry 3• NOCN Certificate in

Independent Living Entry 2/3Students will have access to the college farm, animal management units and horticultural facilities in addition to the life skills facilities in order to achieve these qualifications.


Course facilities

The Entry Level 3 Life Skills group will use the extensive College facilities for vocational work, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff to gain their life skills qualifications.



Entry Level 2 Vocational


• NPTC Diploma in Skills for working Life – Land and Plant – Entry Level 2, including:• Horticulture – identify

plants, prepare, plant and weed an area

• Agriculture – recognise farm animals, bed down and feed farm animals

• Floristry – wrap flowers and plants, and make seasonal arrangements

• Animal Care – recognise small animals; assist with cleaning animal housing and feeding animals

• NOCN Certificate in Independent Living Skills – Entry level 2

Students will have access to the college farm, animal management units and horticultural facilities in addition to the life skills facilities in order to achieve these qualifications.


Course facilities

The E2 Vocational groups use the extensive College facilities for vocational work, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff.


Subject to an end of year review with your course tutor, you could progress onto an Entry Level 3 Course within the Foundation Land-based Programme or onto further education or training.


Entry Level 3 Agriculture


• NPTC Certificate in Skills for working Life – Agricultural Animals – Entry Level 3

• NOCN Certificate in Independent Living Entry 3

These qualifications combine to offer students both knowledge and practical skills in livestock, which include recognising farm animals, recognising and preparing animal housing, and moving and feeding farm animals.

The programme also incorporates health and safety units, literacy, numeracy and independent living skills qualifications.

Course facilities

The E3 Agriculture group use the extensive College Farm facilities, and students will have the opportunity to work with sheep, pigs and cattle, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff.


Subject to an end of year review with your course tutor, you could progress onto a mainstream Level 1 course at Sparsholt College, move into supported employment or go onto further education or training.

Entry Level 3 Animal Care


• NPTC Certificate in Skills for working Life –Animal Care – Entry Level 3


These qualifications combine to offer students both knowledge and practical skills in animal husbandry, from health checking a small animal, assisting with catching and restraining a small animal for grooming. Students will work primarily with dogs, cats, rabbits and chickens, but will also have the opportunity to work with rodents and other species on occasion.


Course facilities

The E3 Animal Care group use the extensive Animal Management facilities,

and students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of small animals, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff.



Entry Level 3 Horse Management (New Course)


• NPTC Certificate in Skills for working Life –– Entry Level 3


These qualifications combine to offer students both knowledge and practical skills in basic horse management, and will cover handling horses,


grooming, mucking out, health checking, rugging up, tacking up and cleaning tack.


Course facilities

The E3 Horse management course will use the extensive Equine facilities, and students will have the opportunity to work with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff.



Entry Level 3 Horticulture


• NPTC Certificate in Skills for working Life – Land and Plant – Entry Level 3


These qualifications combine to offer students both knowledge and practical skills in horticulture, to include recognising parts of plants, harvesting a crop, inserting plant material, controlling weeds in a planted area, and watering plant material by hand.


Course facilities

The E3 Horticulture group use the extensive Horticulture facilities, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff.



Entry Level 3: Diploma in Life Skills/Working Life (New Course)


• NPTC Entry level 3 Diploma in Skills for Working Life, to include vocational units selected from the following areas: Agricultural animals, Poultry, Horse Care, Animal Care, Conservation, Horticulture, Floristry, Hospitality, Vehicle maintenance, Recycling, Construction, Woodwork, and Information Technology.

• Asdan Entry 3 Certificate in Personal & Social Development

These qualifications combine to offer students both knowledge and practical skills in a variety of vocational areas, and to provide employability skills. The programme also incorporates health and safety units, literacy, numeracy and independent living skills qualifications.

Course facilities

The Entry Level 3 Diploma in Skills for working Life group will use the extensive College facilities for vocational work, and students will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, with suitably qualified and experienced vocational staff to gain their life skills qualifications.


Subject to an end of year review with your course tutor, you could progress onto a mainstream Level 1 course within Sparsholt College, move into supported employment, or onto further education or training.


GAME AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

Learning Manager Robin Taylor-Milton Cert Ed., BSc (Hons), MEd.


Game and Wildlife Management

Level 3 Diploma in


Level 2 Diploma in Game Management

Level 1 Diploma in Game and Countryside

Other Game and Wildlife Management courses at Sparsholt College include:

Apprenticeship in Gamekeeping (18 months work-based learning)

A range of short courses relevant to game, wildlife and countryside management including

ATVs | Aluminium Phosphide | Deer Management, stalking and carcase handling

Shotgun safety | Butchery, turkey preparation, burger and sausage making

Game meat hygiene | Bespoke tailored courses

Available for hire our rifle range to recognised clubs, and butchery facilities

Please see our Higher Education full-time prospectus, part-time course guide or website for appropriate details.


Game and Wildlife Management Facilities

Game and Wildlife management provision at Sparsholt College has an enviable

reputation in the industry as a centre for the training and development of outstanding

students, who successfully progress to a career in the industry. This success is built

on the outstanding facilities that student use both at the College and in the local and

national industry to develop knowledge and skills to a high standard.

The Game and Wildlife Centre

Officially opened in 2011 the Game and Wildlife Centre provides industry standard facilities to practice all aspects of game rearing and game meat processing. The rearing facility includes an egg store, incubator and hatchery, along with an indoor rearing area for winter quail rearing projects. The area provides a controlled environment to enable students and staff to carry out research projects.

A game larder, cold store and preparation room give students first-hand experience of larder and game meat processing work and allow them to follow deer and game from the field to fork. The area is used for a number of short courses including wild game meat hygiene, turkey dressing, sausage making and deer carcase handling.

Rifle and shooting range

At the College there is an indoor .22 Rifle range, a clay shooting site and secure gun armoury. In addition to this, students also complete their rifle and shooting skills development by using an external shooting range. Involvement in deer stalking and local shoots helps to develop understanding of the importance of robust systems of Health and Safety management.


Charles Smith-Jones Tutor, Game and WildlifeCharles is a committed countryman who has been heavily involved with wild deer and their management for over thirty years. He is a qualified instructor in a variety of sporting firearms and has run a number of successful shoots and fisheries.

Charles writes regularly for Deer magazine and Shooting Times and is the author of an acclaimed book on the muntjac deer. He joined Sparsholt following a career in the British Army, and he is still a primary advisor to the Ministry of Defence estates on deer matters as well as being a Trustee Director of The British Deer Society.

Gamekeeping activities

Students develop an understanding of commercial pheasant and partridge shooting through involvement with a range of local estates on shoot days, supervised by College staff.

Deer and Estate management

The College Estate includes a park herd of Sika Deer, a semi ancient natural woodland area, and a fishing lake which attracts wildlife and wetland species. Students are involved in the management of the deer herd, which includes culling and venison production.

Industry engagement

The Game and Wildlife teaching team have outstanding industry contacts, and students benefit from this with excellent access to exciting work placements, and study tours across the country to experience activities such as stalking, grouse management and a range of shoots from large commercial ones, to part time keepered enterprises.


The Gamekeeping industry is a fascinating and varied career opportunity, and if you enjoy working outdoors and value wildlife management then it is a most worthwhile and rewarding way of life.

A range of practical skills, a good knowledge of the countryside and its wildlife, and an ability to deal with people of wide ranging personalities and character are key skills for all gamekeepers, and there are a range of career/employment opportunities available.

Careers InformationRange of Work Available

• Gamekeeper on wild bird and reared shooting estates.

• Deer park warden or keeper – responsible for managing the deer for aesthetics and venison production

• Deer stalker – managing wild deer and their habitats for sporting clients and venison production

• Pest controller• Gundog trainers

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Further Information

National Gamekeepers OrganisationDarlington DL1 9FZ01833 660869www.nationalgamekeepers.org.uk




This broad-based, exciting course, will equip students with the knowledge, understanding and practical skills necessary to effectively manage a wide range of game species and their associated habitats. The course consists of units covering the range of knowledge and skills needed for a career in game and wildlife management, and is a combination of practical and theoretical work.


Student work placements with sporting estates in Years 1 and 2 are an integral part of the course. The work placements, combined with regular field trips and practical work on local sites provide great opportunities to meet and work alongside those employed in the industry.

Study tours include trips to Teesdale to work on some of Britain’s most prestigious grouse moors, Norfolk to see how the wild grey partridge is managed, and Deeside to experience highland deer stalking.

Wildlife and conservation strategies

Principles of ecology

Estate and conservation skills

Vertebrate pest and predator control

Woodland and farm habitat management

Commercial deer management

Deer stalking

Game bird rearing and production

Shoot management and firearm use

The role of working dogs

Course facilities

The College has a wide range of excellent practical facilities relevant to this course including: an indoor rifle range; permanent clay pigeon site; park herd of sika deer; game larder and meat processing facility; gamebird incubation and rearing unit. We are also fortunate to have access to a range of sporting estates throughout Hampshire and further afield. Course lecturers also have excellent game and

wildlife experience and are involved in managing game on local estates.

Is it for you?

A successful student will display a high level of interest and commitment to both the course and any game/wildlife work placements or volunteer work they undertake. This will maximise the experience, knowledge and skills they will develop throughout the course, as well as improve

their chances of successful completion, subsequently increasing their potential for employment in the game and wildlife industries. Any experience from placements or involvement with shoots is helpful, but that is also offered on the course.




• Award in All Terrain Vehicle Handling (Quad bikes)

• Award in Wild Game Meat Hygiene

• Award in Food Safety in Catering

• Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1

Duration

Two years



courses in Ecology and Rural Estate Management

• Level 3 or 4 Apprenticeships

Employment:• Underkeeper or Beat Keeper

working on a sporting estate in the UK or abroad

• Wildlife Ranger with the Forestry Commission

• Deer Stalker

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and a Science, or a Level 2 Diploma at merit level

• Students over the aged of 21 may be considered with alternative experience or qualifications

Clive Gillas Level 3 Extended Diploma in


I knew from an early age that I wanted to go into Gamekeeping, which Sparsholt is renowned for so I knew it was the place to go. We visited while I was at school, and I thought the campus was really large and professional.

The whole course was a good experience for me – very practical and different to school. You really get to know people on your course and are all interested in the same things, which is very enjoyable. The lecturers have been more like mates, you can talk to them about anything. As part of the course we went up to Scotland for deer stalking and to find out more about the grouse moors, which I really enjoyed. The rearing side was more involved than I thought – we reared quail as well as pheasant and partridge. The larder facilities are really good here and being taught gralloching was also a plus.

I’m working part-time at the moment rearing pheasants and hope to be working full-time as a Gamekeeper once I finish the course. We have visited most of the local estates so now I know lots of local keepers, who are good contacts.


Level 3 Diploma in


This broad-based, exciting course, will equip students with the knowledge, understanding and practical skills necessary to effectively manage a wide range of game species and their associated habitats. The course consists of units covering the range of knowledge and skills needed for a career in game and wildlife management, and is a combination of practical and theoretical work.

Wildlife and conservation strategies

Principles of ecology

Estate and conservation skills

Vertebrate pest and predator control

Commercial deer management

Game bird rearing and production

Shoot management and firearm use

The role of working dogs


Student work placements with sporting estates in years 1 and 2 are an integral part of the course. The work placements, combined with regular field trips and practical work on local sites provide great opportunities to meet and work alongside those employed in the industry.

Study tours include trips to Teesdale to work on some of Britain’s most prestigious grouse moors, Norfolk to see how the wild grey partridge is managed, and Deeside to experience highland deer stalking.

Course facilities

The College has a wide range of excellent practical facilities relevant to this course including: an indoor rifle range; permanent clay pigeon site; park herd of sika deer; game larder and meat processing facility; gamebird incubation and rearing unit. We are also fortunate to have access to a range of sporting estates throughout Hampshire and further afield. Course lecturers also have excellent game and wildlife experience and are involved in managing game on local estates.

Is it for you?

A successful student will display a high level of interest and commitment to both the course and any game/wildlife work placements or volunteer work they undertake. This will maximise the experience, knowledge and skills they will develop throughout the course, as well as improve their chances of successful completion, subsequently increasing their potential for employment in the game and wildlife industries. At this level students must be able to self-study and commit to additional activities

outside the classroom. Any experience from placements or involvement with shoots is helpful, but that is also offered on the course.



• Award in All Terrain Vehicle Handling (Quad bikes)

• Award in Wild Game Meat Hygiene

• Award in Food Safety in Catering

• Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1


Duration

Two years



courses in Ecology and Rural Estate Management

• Level 3 or 4 Apprenticeships

Employment:• Underkeeper or Beat Keeper

working on a sporting estate in the UK or abroad

• Wildlife Ranger with the Forestry Commission

• Deer Stalker

Entry Requirements

• Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including English; or a Level 2 Diploma at with at least two units at merit level



Level 2 Diploma in GAME MANAGEMENT

The course consists of units covering the management of game and deer, and the management of associated habitats, and students also have the chance to study Fisheries Management as part of the course. Maths and English skills will be topped up as necessary to enable progression to other courses and employment.

Game management and bird rearing

Conservation and improvement of British habitats

Industry skills development

Pest and predator control

Estate maintenance

Industry skills development is very important: students will complete work placement activities at College and will also complete an industry based placement during the course, with advice from tutors on selecting the best available placement.

Course facilities

The Game and Wildlife team are all experts in their industry, and very experienced teachers. The new specialist Game and Wildlife Centre with its game bird hatchery and larder/chilling facilities for game and deer processing, is used for practical skills development throughout the course. A 25m indoor .22 Range, and a variety of clay pigeon traps for use with shotgun handling and training courses, are also used to help students develop vital skills.

The opportunity to work on local shooting estates alongside their Gamekeepers enables students to practise what they have been taught in the work environment.

Is it for you?

A successful student will need to have a strong commitment and enthusiasm for gamekeeping and wildlife management, and enjoy working outside in different situations. Students will develop a range of practical and study skills during the course.


• NPTC Live Quarry Shooting Qualification

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Game Management

or related subject• Apprenticeship in

Gamekeeping at Level 2 or 3

Employment:• Beatkeeper• Underkeeper• Pest Controller• Estate worker

Entry Requirements

• Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including English, or a Level 1 Diploma, with a good supporting reference



Level 1 Diploma in

GAME AND COUNTRYSIDE This course will develop a wide range of practical and employment skills with game birds, deer and modern machinery. Maths and English skills will be enhanced as necessary to enable progression to other courses and employment in the industry.


During the course, the students will be part of a beating team and undertake habitat management practical tasks which provide an excellent training experience and a realistic work experience situation. There will be opportunities to develop estate maintenance skills as part of the course.

Husbandry and management of gamebirds

Habitat management and farm conservation

Estate and maintenance skills

Husbandry and movement of animals

Maths and English skills

Course facilities

Students will use the new state of the art Game and Wildlife Centre with its game bird hatchery, deer herd, and game rearing facilities to develop a range of industrial skills. The staff teaching on the course really enjoy working with students to develop knowledge and skills and have excellent industry contacts.

Is it for you?

A successful student will have a keen interest in gamekeeping and the countryside, and enjoy working outside. Students will also complete an assessment portfolio during the course to cover both the classroom and practical course content.

You can also work towards additional qualification such as:

• Functional skills in Maths and English

Duration

One year


Continuing education: • Level 2 Diploma in Game

Management or related subject

• Level 2 Apprenticeship in Gamekeeping

Employment: • Underkeeper • Assistant keeper • Game farm assistant

Entry Requirements

GCSEs at Grade D to G.


HORTICULTURELearning Manager for Horticulture Jonathan Baker FICfor, MArborA, CEnv, MIfl

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture

NPTC Level 2 Diploma in Horticulture

NPTC Level 1 Diploma in

Work-based Horticulture

Other Horticulture courses at Sparsholt College include:

BSc (Hons) in Garden Design (Top Up Degree) (part-time and full-time) Foundation (FdSc) Garden Design (part-time and full-time) | RHS Certificates

Apprenticeship in Amenity Horticulture

Please see our part-time course guide, full-time Higher Education prospectus or our website for appropriate details of these courses.


Horticultural Facilities

Horticulture covers many different aspects of garden and landscape care. The College

has many dedicated training resources to develop this huge range of skills.

• Five hectares dedicated to horticultural practice• Landscaped gardens, lawns and decorative beds, which benefit all our students and visitors• Acknowledged expert staff with much broadcasting and consultancy experience• Production polytunnels• Garden design studio• Opportunities for Extended Diploma students to exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show (Awarded

Gold medal and Best in Category in both 2011 and 2012 and a Silver Gilt medal in 2013)

The commercial section is made up of a Crop Production Unit consisting of some two hectares, which includes glasshouses, walk-in polythene tunnels and container beds for tree and shrub production. Crops include a range of cut flowers, bedding plants, flowering and foliage pot plants. Container beds have been established for the cultivation of trees and shrubs producing a wide range of plant material.

A small fruit area of 0.6 hectares has also been established to demonstrate current cultural techniques and includes a collection of Hampshire and Isle of Wight apple trees.

Turf management is practised on the six hectare sports field which includes three winter pitches. A wide range of turf-related equipment is also available for maintaining the sports areas.

A drawing studio fitted with A1 size drawing boards to meets the needs of garden design students and those studying design and surveying as part of other programmes.

The GQT Garden

The College is home to the famous Potting Shed for BBC Radio 4’s “Gardeners’ Question Time” where listeners’ letters are answered by the celebrity panel. The GQT garden is also a regular venue for the annual GQT Garden Party.


Careers Information

Horticulture is an industry that contributes

£9 billion to the UK economy each year and

employs some 300,000 people. It contributes

to our food security, health, well-being and

mitigating the effects of environmental

change. Job opportunities for skilled people

are considerable and the Royal Horticultural

Society and the industry as a whole reported

a considerable and continuing shortage of

skilled people in the industry in its report to

Government in May 2013. Horticulture covers a

wide range of opportunities:

Amenity horticulture includes creating and

maintaining gardens and landscaped areas for

private use, public access and recreation.

Landscaping employs a large number of people

in designing, constructing and maintaining a

wide range of landscaped areas both public

and private. The industry covers commercial

landscaping, private and domestic landscaping

and interior landscaping for the likes of offices

and shopping malls.

Production horticulture covers crop production.

Glasshouse production involves the production

of plants, decorative display plants and food

crops. Outdoor production might include the

likes of vegetables, fruit, salads, bulbs and cut

flowers. The scale of production indoors and

outdoors varies from small and specialist to

very large scale organisations supplying quality

products to the major retail chains.

Retail sales is a growing sector in the UK

comprising specialist businesses, Garden

Centres and organisations such as Waitrose,

Sainsburys and Tesco now heavily involved.

Knowledge covering ornamental plants, top and

soft fruit, indoor plants, horticultural chemicals

and sundries, plus gardening and product advice

for customers is invaluable alongside retail skills

such as merchandising and care of premises

and products.

Sports Turf Management can lead to an interesting career in the sports industry, working to maintain playing surfaces to the highest standard, including topflight football pitches.

Range of work available

• Care and maintenance of public and amenity gardens including parks, public spaces and gardens open to the public such as National Trust gardens

• Local Government parks and recreation areas management

• Grounds management such as for hospitals, businesses and schools

• Care and maintenance of private gardens

Matt JessopTutor, Horticulture

Matt graduated from Strathclyde University with an honours degree in Horticultural Management and went on to work in commercial fruit farms, garden centres and on private estates. He then set up a social enterprise re-training young offenders, which sparked his passion for teaching and led to his Masters qualification in Educational Management.

“Working in Horticulture is a fantastic career choice. It stretches you mentally and physically. Early starts on beautiful summer mornings more than make up for the dark winter months. If you want to train in Horticulture, Sparsholt is where you want to be. The reputation with industry is unrivalled and the opportunities are limitless”.


• Designing and building gardens and green spaces

• Production horticulture in the glasshouse and outdoor sectors

• Retail sales and operations in specialist businesses, Garden Centres and retail chains.

• Golf courses and green-keeping• Race course, football and sports stadiums

grounds management

Further Information

Careers in horticulture websitehttp://www.growcareers.info/

Institute of HorticultureCapel Manor College, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 4RQwww.horticulture.org.uk

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association (BIGGA)The Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC)Alne, York YO6 2NFwww.bigga.org.uk www.the-gtc.co.uk

British Association of Landscape IndustriesKeighley, West Yorks, BD21 3DR01535 606139www.bali.org.uk

Horticultural Trades Association Horticulture House 19 High Street Theale Reading West Berkshire RG7 5AH http://www.the-hta.org.uk/ Tel: 0118 930 3132

Society of Garden DesignersKatepwa houseAshfield Pak AvenueRoss-on-WyeHerefordshireHR9 5AX http://www.sgd.org.uk/Default.aspx 01989 566695

Royal Horticultural Society80 Vincent Square London SW1P 2PE http://www.rhs.org.uk/ Telephone 0845 260 5000



HORTICULTURE

This two-year course aims to provide a broad based training programme in horticulture, covering aspects of landscaping, amenity and commercial horticulture. It also provides the skills and knowledge towards progression and employment.


An external two-week work placement is used in the first year, allowing industry networking and employability skills development. You will also have the opportunity to enter high profile competitions such as BALI WorldSkills Landscaping and the Institute of Horticulture’s Young Horticulturalist of the Year. Sparsholt is proud to have many finalists and winners of these contests in recent years. Additionally, in the second year, students are given the opportunity to exhibit at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show where medal success is very high. All these attractions offer a great opportunity to gain experience and knowledge.

There are also in year visits to RHS Wisley, National Trust gardens such as Stourhead, commercial visits to local enterprises and extended study tours as available.


Horticultural business management

Ornamental plant identification

Horticultural machinery operation and maintenance

Construct and maintain decking and fencing

Plant propagation and care

Principles of sustainable development and ecology

Construct and restore walls

Principles and practices of landscape and garden design

Course facilities

Two hectares of specialist turf and protected growing areas, including large commercial glasshouse. Extensive landscape planting, orchard and the BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time southern garden. Staff have unrivalled expertise and knowledge of the horticultural industry.

Is it for you?

To be a successful student, you will need to be self-motivated, able to work outdoors with an enquiring mind about the natural world and a passion for the Horticulture industry. Students will be keen to learn about the various aspects of the course, enjoy practical work as well as the more applied science content of the course.


• RHS Level 2 practical certificate in horticulture

• Level 2 certificate of competence in pedestrian controlled mowers

• Level 2 certificate of competence in the safe use of hedge trimmers


Duration

Two years


Continuing education:• University level Foundation

degree and BSc programmes

Employment:• Amenity horticulture• Floristry

• Greenkeeping• Garden design• Garden retail and sales• Commercial production• Hard or soft landscaping• Botanic and heritage

gardening• Journalism/media• Science and research• Therapeutic or social

gardening

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, Maths and a Science, or a relevant Level 2 Diploma at merit level


Jack Shilley

Diploma in Horticulture

When I was choosing a course I looked at various

College prospectuses and then visited my favourites.

At Sparsholt I found the facilities a lot better and

the lecturers seemed more involved, so I applied.

I noticed the glasshouses were in good condition,

neat and tidy and up-to-date, and I thought it would

be a good place to study.

The course content is fantastic and the delivery is

great. The lessons are very interactive and there are

lots of practicals to put into practice what we’ve

learnt. I went to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this

year as part of my work experience and am looking

forward to being involved in Sparsholt’s garden next

year as part of the Extended Diploma course.

The lecturers are really accessible and helpful.

We are encouraged to use the facilities outside

of lessons too, and also have some student allotments on site where I am growing

tomatoes, blackcurrants and sunflowers.

There are lots of College resources I have tapped into and have received some good

careers advice. In the future I’d like to go into Horticultural Management and am working

towards that. Everything on the Business Management unit has been really useful, such

as financial and people management so that is all relevant too.


Level 2 Diploma in HORTICULTURE

This course offers a theoretical and practical background of horticultural skills that will provide a level of competence to satisfy the needs of a specialised and increasingly sophisticated industry.


Weekly work experience takes place on the college campus to introduce discipline of the working environment.

A range of visits to support the curriculum will be arranged over the year including RHS Garden Wisley, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Establishment and maintenance of plants outdoors


Landscape construction

Horticultural machinery

Plant identification and selection

Course facilities

Two hectares including landscaped gardens, lawns, decorative beds; fruit area; a glasshouse with a section developed with a tropical theme incorporating plants from five continents, walk-in polythene tunnels and container beds; hard

landscaping area; the home of BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time garden. Knowledgeable staff with experience of the industry.

Is it for you?

A successful student will be motivated, with a keen interest in horticulture, and its various aspects, such as landscaping. During the course, students will also develop Maths and English skills and gain practical experience in the Horticultural grounds at the College.


• Level 1 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills

• Level 2 Award in Safe Use of Pedestrian Controlled Mowers

• Functional Skills in English and Maths

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Diploma or Extended

Diploma in Horticulture• Level 3 Apprenticeship in

Horticulture

Employment:• Amenity horticulture• Garden centres• Nurseries• Greenkeeping• Hard landscaping

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a relevant Level 1 Diploma.


Level 1 Diploma HORTICULTURE

This course offers a practical introduction to horticulture allowing students to learn, develop and practise the skills required for employment.


A range of visits to support the curriculum will be arranged over the year including RHS Garden Wisley, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Work practice

Planting, establishing and maintaining plants outdoors

Maintaining grass

Machinery

Plant propagation

Course facilities

Two hectares including landscaped gardens, lawns, decorative beds; fruit area; a glasshouse with a section developed with a tropical theme incorporating plants from five continents, walk-in polythene tunnels and container beds; hard landscaping area; the home of BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time garden. Knowledgeable staff with experience of the industry.

Is it for you?

A successful student will be motivated, with a keen interest in horticulture, and with plans to progress into the industry or onto a Level 2 course. During the course, students will develop Maths, English and employment skills.


• Level 1 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills

• Open Awards Level 1 Award in Developing Skills for Employment

• Functional Skills in English and Maths

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 2 Diploma in

Horticulture• Level 2 Apprenticeship in

Horticulture

Employment:• Amenity horticulture• Garden centres• Nurseries• Greenkeeping

Entry Requirements

GCSEs at E-F, or successful completion of an Entry Level course.


MOTOR VEHICLE TECHNOLOGYLearning Manager for Motor Vehicle Technology Geoff Niblett Cert. Ed.

Level 3 Diploma in

Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles

Level 2 Diploma in

Light Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Level 2 Diploma in

Vehicle Fitting Principles

Level 1 Diploma in

Vehicle Maintenance with EAL Certificate of Engineering

Other Motor Vehicle Technology courses at Sparsholt College include:

Apprenticeship in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Please see our website for details


Motor Vehicle Technology Facilities

The College’s extensive range of equipment and facilities provides an excellent teaching

environment for students from all courses to develop knowledge and practical skills.

Three workshops are dedicated to the teaching of motor vehicle maintenance skills with a further workshop set up for teaching welding and fabrication metal work. The workshop area is being redeveloped with the whole of the area gaining a new look and better insulation, most of the work will be completed by Sept 2013, however there will also be a new classroom and double workshop complex due to be completed Sept 2014. This is a very exciting time for the motor vehicle area and we are looking forward to improving our already very good facilities.

Next to the workshops, the driving plot is available for training and assessment of vehicles and student’s own driving skills.

Many students attending the motor vehicle courses say they enjoy being treated like adults and enjoy good relationships with the staff. With the benefit of a workshop dedicated to their course group, a sense of ownership and pride in their work leads to high levels of success.

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Careers InformationThe courses in the engineering section of the College are all carefully designed to provide students with appropriate practical training and theoretical knowledge for successful careers working in the motor vehicle service and repair sector.

The car continues to be central to modern living, and employment prospects within this sector are sound. Opportunities exist within the main dealer network or with the many smaller garages and repair workshops. With further training, there are opportunities for specialising in diagnostics, auto electrical, motor cycle repairs, heavy goods mechanics or as a technical service receptionist.

For a career in sales, self-motivation, enthusiasm, customer service and an enjoyment of travelling are important, particularly for careers in the manufacturing industry which may involve overseas work. Many companies prefer their sales staff to have achieved some form of technical qualification before moving into sales.

Engineering has always offered a rewarding career to those who have chosen to work in those industries regardless of sector or position as a Service Engineer, Demonstrator, Auto-electrician, Receptionist, Storesperson or Salesperson.

Apprenticeships are a popular route into the industry.


• Technician• Sales representative• Demonstrator• Service Receptionist• Parts and stores manager

For further information:

General information on careers in the motor industry:National Careers Servicehttps://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobfamily/Pages/maintenanceservandrepair.aspx

Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI)Brickendon, Hertford SG13 8PQ01992 511 521www.motor.org.uk

Jeff WilliamsonTutor, Motor Vehicle TechnologyJeff has almost twenty-five years of motor vehicle experience, starting as an apprentice

with Mazda and including workshop management roles for Vauxhall and

Volkswagen.

Looking for a new challenge but not wanting to move too far from his motor industry roots, he joined Sparsholt in 2005, adding a Certificate in Education to his motor vehicle qualifications and experience.

“As the Level three course tutor, job satisfaction comes from the feeling you get at the end of the year when the students have been successful on the course and leave the College to take up apprenticeships or jobs in the motor industry. It’s great to know you are giving something back to a profession that has been your life for so many years. I truly believe that with our individual workshops and our dedicated teaching team Sparsholt has the best motor vehicle provision in the area”.


Level 3 Diploma in

LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR PRINCIPLES

This course covers the theory part of the apprenticeship framework for the advanced apprenticeship in Light Vehicle Service and Repair and is a mix of theory and practical work. You will study the understanding, diagnosis and repair of light vehicle system faults.

Diagnosis and rectification of vehicle auxiliary electrical faults

Diagnosis and rectification of light vehicle engine faults

Diagnosis and rectification of light vehicle chassis system faults

Overhauling light vehicle engine mechanical units

Diagnosis and rectification of light vehicle transmission and driveline faults

Kurdy CollinsLevel 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles

My Dad was a mechanic so I knew a bit about it already and Sparsholt’s course was personally recommended to me. I came to visit the College for an interview which was really informative and backed up what I thought about the course so I decided to come here.

All the facilities are brilliant. The workshops are up-to-date, there is a variety of cars and all the tools you need. The workshops are big enough for everyone to have a space so you can actually work, not just watch. The tutors are really helpful and we all work as a team and support each other. The rally cars have been good to work on, and also an Escort that was built from scratch as a student project.

Sparsholt helped me fit in straight away and is a very supportive place. We enjoyed playing pool and socialising with students from other courses at lunchtimes.

I’d like to work for Vauxhall in the future, their cars are good to work on. Sparsholt gives you a good qualification which will help get work and is very hands-on. I would recommend to anyone thinking about being a mechanic to talk to the College and give it a try.



Our students are consistently successful on this course, giving us results which year after year are better than would be expected across the country. Trips and visits are regular events and designed to enhance your enjoyment of the course, broaden your knowledge of the industry and encourage team sprit within the groups. Trips have included:

• World rally championships in Wales

• Auto Sport International show

• Santa Pod drag racing• MACH Engineering Show• Beaulieu Motor Museum

Course facilities

We have three fully equipped motor vehicle workshops complete with a comprehensive range of vehicles, tools and equipment.

The teaching team are passionate about passing on their knowledge and skills to the motor vehicle repair technicians of the future.

Is it for you?

You will have a keen interest in motor vehicles and be willing to learn in a practical and theory environment. To be a successful student you will be self-motivated, with the ability to self-study, demonstrate the ability to complete written assignments to set deadlines and gain a good underpinning knowledge of light vehicle electrics, engine, transmission and chassis principles.

You can also work towards an additional Level 2 qualification in MIG and ARC Welding.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Higher Education Level 4

motor sport courses

Employment:• Light vehicle apprenticeship• Semi-skilled service

technician

Entry Requirements

Level 2 IMI Diploma in Vehicle Service and Repair with a good standard of English and Maths and relevant industry experience.


Level 2 Diploma in

LIGHT MOTOR VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

This course provides comprehensive knowledge of identifying light vehicle components and units, component and unit operation, removing and refitting components and units as well checking, adjusting and maintaining components and units.

Work safely and productively in the workshop environment

Build good working relationships with peers, supervisors and customers in the motor vehicle environment

Understanding of the materials used in light vehicles and how to use the correct tools

Light vehicle maintenance and repair

Light vehicle engine mechanical components and operations

Light vehicle engine fuel and ignition system operations and processes

Electrical principles and operations of light vehicle electrical systems

Brakes, steering and suspension systems used on light vehicles

Light vehicle transmission systems, including clutches, gearboxes and drive line components





• Santa Pod drag racing• Mercedes World• MACH Engineering Show

Course facilities



Is it for you?

You will have a keen interest in motor vehicles and be willing to get ‘hands-on’ to work and learn in a practical and theory environment.


• Functional skills levels 1 or 2 in English

• Functional skills level 1 or 2 in Maths


Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Level 3 Maintenance and

Repair Principles• Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship

in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, Vehicle Fast Fitting or Light Vehicle Body Repair

Employment:• Semi-skilled service

technician• Vehicle Parts, Sales and Store

Keeping• Other practical skills based

jobs where using tools and removing and refitting components is required

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths, English and a Science, or a relevant Level 1 Diploma and Functional skills minimum of entry level 3 in English and Maths.

Level 2 Diploma in

VEHICLE FITTING PRINCIPLES

This course is aimed at those wishing to develop their skills in the Fast Fit industry or those who need more time to develop their practical and academic skills before taking on the challenge of Level 2 Service and Repair and beyond.

Health and safety and good housekeeping in the automotive environment

Supporting job roles in the automotive work environment

Materials, fabrication, tools and measuring devices used in the automotive environment

Inspection, repair and replacement of high performance light vehicle tyres

Inspection and replacement of light vehicle exhaust components

Inspection, testing and replacement of vehicle batteries and related components

Inspection, adjustment and replacement of light vehicle braking systems and components





• Sport International show• Santa Pod drag racing• Mercedes World• MACH Engineering Show

Course facilities




Continuing education:• Level 3 Maintenance Service

and Repair• Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship

in Vehicle Fast Fitting

Employment:• Fast Fit Fitter• Semi-Skilled Vehicle Fitter

Is it for you?



• Functional skills levels 1 and 2 in English

• Functional skills level 1 and 2 in Maths

Duration

One year

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above including Maths, English and a Science, or a relevant Level 1 Diploma.


Level 1 Diploma in

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE with EAL Certificate of Engineering

Level 1 will give you a real feel for the Motor Vehicle industry, and is a great starting point for a fulfilling career within it. It gives you the chance to use equipment you will find in any Motor Vehicle workshop. You will learn the basic Health and Safety needed to satisfy your future employer. You will also develop your communication and hand skills.

Health and safety practices in vehicle maintenance

Tools, equipment, and materials for vehicle maintenance

Si engine systems, components and operation

Engine liquid cooling and lubrication systems components and operation

Steering and suspension systems components and maintenance (4 wheels or more)

Vehicle braking systems components and maintenance

Routine vehicle maintenance processes and procedures on vehicles (4 wheels or more)

Vehicle wheels and tyres construction and maintenance

Vehicle electrical foundation skills

Vehicle lighting system maintenance

Routine motorcycle maintenance processes and procedures



Our students are consistently successful on this course, giving us results which year after year are better than would be expected across the country. Trips and visits are regular events and designed to enhance your enjoyment of the course, broaden your knowledge of the industry and encourage team sprit within the groups.

Trips have included:



• Sunseeker Rally assisting with scrutineering

• Santa Pod drag racing• Silverstone education centre

and Moto GP• Mercedes World• Griffin Hovercraft• MACH Engineering Show

Course facilities

We have three fully equipped motor vehicle workshops complete with comprehensive range of vehicles, tools and equipment.

Is it for you?


Duration

One year


• Functional skills Levels 1 or Entry Level 3 in English

• Functional skills Levels 1 or Entry Level 3 in Maths

• EAL: Certificate of Engineering


Continuing education:• IMIAL Level 2 Diploma in

Vehicle Fitting Principles• IMIAL Level 2 Diploma in

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

• Level 2 Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship

Employment:• Motor Vehicle

Apprenticeship• Fast Fit Workshop• Tyre Fitting• Body Repair Centre• Armed Forces

Entry Requirements

No formal entry qualifications are required. Evidence of a basic education and enthusiasm for motor vehicles will be sought at interview.


SPORT, OUTDOOR EDUCATION AND PUBLIC SERVICES

Learning Manager for Sports, Outdoor Education and Public Services

Lawrence Blair MSc (Ed Man) HND, Cert Ed

Football Academy:Level 3 Extended Diploma or Diploma in

Sport, Performance and Excellence

Level 2 Diploma in Sport

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Fitness Academy)

Level 2 Diploma in Sport

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Outdoor Adventure

Level 2 Diploma in Outdoor Adventure

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public and Uniformed Services

Level 2 Diploma in Public and Uniformed Services


Sport and Outdoor Education Facilities

• Brand new indoor sports centre

• Brand new purpose built state of the art indoor climbing wall

• High quality fully equipped fitness suite

• Exercise studio with sprung floor

• High quality 1st team football pitch – fully fenced with dugouts

• Two additional football pitches plus training areas

• Four separate pitch-side training facilities

• Academy links with professional and amateur clubs (including Southampton FC, Andover Town

FC, Southampton Girls & Ladies FC, The Hampshire Golf Club), county sports organisations and

local sports clubs

• Low ropes course for fitness training and instruction

• Plenty of space around the campus and surrounding countryside for mountain biking

• Exclusive access to a local lake for kayaking and canoeing

• Trips to other local resources for adventure activities on the coast, in the New Forest, for

expedition training in Dartmoor and for kayaking and mountain biking in the Brecon Beacons

Sparsholt College is:

• Host to the Southampton FC ‘Second Chance’ Football Program • A recognised centre for Coach Development Hampshire


Annual trips and visits

All courses involve visits to organisations within the industry, including outdoor centres and major sporting facilities, such as:

• UK sports shows including the Southampton Boat Show and the National Outdoor Show• Annual ski trip• Hampshire Mountain Centre, Brecon Beacons• Villarreal Club de Fútbol, S.A.D., Valencia, Spain – minimum of four hours coaching each day

from the club’s coaching staff at the training ground as well as playing competitive matches. Plus a Stadium tour, watch a first team training session and see a first team match

Investment

Sparsholt College’s exciting new sports centre was completed in Summer 2013 and includes a full size sports hall, an exercise studio with sprung floor, a fully equipped fitness suite and a purpose built state of the art climbing wall. The new climbing wall includes natural rock features, overhangs and a number of sport routes to suit climbers of all abilities.

The fitness suite was refurbished in May 2010 and is specified to a high standard. It contains a variety of individual station resistance training equipment, free weights, a Smith Machine and Power Rack to allow a wide variety of resistance programmes to be undertaken.

The cardiovascular suite contains a number of Concept II rowing machines and a kayak trainer, together with cycles, treadmills, cross-trainers and a stretching/warm-up area. Qualified instructors are on-hand for advice and support on training programmes, rehabilitation and dietary issues.

The section has a fleet of mountain bikes, canoes and kayaks used extensively for practical training locally and further afield in areas such as the New Forest, Purbeck Hills and South Wales. Hill walking and rock climbing equipment is deployed for higher level and extended expeditions.


Careers Information

Leisure industries are enjoying a sustained period of growth, and personal fitness and recreation are central to many peoples lifestyle.

Sparsholt courses all include the opportunities to earn further qualifications in instruction and other support skills required for employment. Fees may be payable for these additional qualifications.

Following success in a qualification, it will often be necessary to build practical experience in non-management positions, working through a career structure to management roles.


• Instructor – outdoor centre, sports centre, fitness centre

• Specialist coach • Teaching • Professional or semi-professional player • Leisure centre management • Fitness professional

Further information

Sport IQ www.careers-in-sport.co.uk

National Careers Service Job profiles in Sport Leisure and Tourism https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobfamily/Pages/sportleisureandtourism.aspx


SPARSHOLT ACADEMY OF SPORT

For talented and committed people between the ages of 16 and 19, the Sparsholt Academy Programmes develop sporting potential while working towards national qualifications at college.

All sports benefit from:

Experienced coaches, including visiting coaches

A personalised programme of fitness and nutrition

Competition in regional and national fixtures

Sports technology and resources such as video analysis to perfect techniques and skills

Depending on GCSE results, Academy students will study either the Level 2 BTEC Diploma in Sport or the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sports Performance and Excellence (see page 140). Students are also encouraged to take additional qualifications such as Coaching, First Aid, Active IQ Fitness Instructor, Functional skills and to improve and extend prospects for employment. There is a fee for NGB coaching awards of between £200 and £300.

Application to the Academy Programme

Entry to the Academy programme is subject to a trial and interview. Please apply using the Fulltime Course Application Form for either Level 2 Diploma in Exercise and Fitness (Academy option) or the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sports Performance and Excellence (Academy option).

SPARSHOLT FOOTBALL ACADEMYHead coach: Neil Benson UEFA A Licence

For football players with a high standard of skill and who have been identified as having the potential to progress to a career as a professional player. The Academy works in partnership with Southampton FC and the Saints ‘second chance’ program. The College also has links with a number of additional professional clubs for trial opportunities The Academy runs a tier system to cater for players of various abilities.


WOMEN’S FOOTBALL ACADEMYHead coach: Samantha Vokes

The Academy works closely with a number of local football clubs, including Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies FC, Andover Newstreet Ladies FC and Winchester Flyers FC to achieve the best possible experience and exposure to the game, preparing you for a professional career and a variety of employment routes into the sports industry.

GOLF ACADEMYHead coach: Tim Baker (Golf Professional, The Hampshire Golf Club, Andover)

Open to talented golfers from the age of 16, the Sports Academy Programme offers a unique opportunity to receive tailored performance coaching to develop levels of personal performance while studying for recognised qualifications in sport.

Most of our Academy students will represent a club or county organisation in regional or national competitions. Under the tuition of Tim Baker the golfers will undertake a structured training program that targets the various facets of the game. Time to train and participate in competitions is core to the Programme.


FOOTBALL ACADEMY:

Level 3 Extended Diploma or Diploma in

SPORT, PERFORMANCE AND EXCELLENCE

Level 2 Diploma in SPORT

For talented and committed players between the ages of 16 and 19, the Sparsholt Football Academy develops footballing potential while working towards a sports qualification at either Level 2 or 3.

The qualification is built around the football programme with Academy Training three times per week and this is supplemented by a comprehensive match programme which includes Conference Youth Alliance League, South West Counties Youth League and Hampshire Colleges Football Leagues.

Technical and tactical skills in sport

Sports psychology

Talent identification and development in sport

Analysis of sports performance

Training and fitness programming


Southampton FC Second chance Programme

As part of the new Sparsholt Football Academy partnership with Southampton FC Academy this Elite Centre squad will represent our highest level of football at Sparsholt. With the fundamental goal of producing players for Southampton FC a detailed programme has been developed to give players the best possible opportunities to succeed their quest to become professional footballers.

Andover Town FC

The Academy is now able to offer our players senior football via the newly formed Andover Town FC. The club will be run by the college and will play Wessex League football at the Portway Stadium in Andover. This will provide senior football opportunities for our 2nd year players as well as a viable progression route for players at the end of the program.


Course facilities

• Fantastic first team football pitch which is fully fenced with dugouts to meet Step 7 requirements

• Four pitch-side changing rooms (brand new)

• Three football pitches plus additional training areas

• Recently re-furbished fitness suite (incorporating CV, resistance and free-weights)

Is it for you?

Recognising that players develop at different ages our Tier 1 programme gives players a chance to progress to the Elite Centre. Most of these players will have been involved close to this standard previously and wish to play in a high quality competitive environment.

Most of our tier 2 players will play the majority of their competitive football within our college leagues (midweek) but can gain all the advantages of being in a full-time program.

Our tier 3 players will also gain match opportunities and regular training at a slightly less intense environment. All players within our tier 1/2/3 programme are able to attach to clubs appropriately to paly further competitive football.

You can also work towards an FA Level 1 Certificate in Football Coaching and optional Active IQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor


Continuing education:• Degree in a sport or fitness

related field

• Foundation Degree in a sport or fitness related field

• Advanced apprenticeships in sports coaching

Employment:• A career in professional and

semi-professional football• Football coaching careers• Further and higher education

opportunities• Employment in sports and/

or leisure related fields

Duration

Level 3: Two yearLevel 2: One year

Entry Requirements

• Level 3: Five GCSEs at Grade C or above, or a Level 2 Diploma at merit level

• Level 2: Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a Level 1 Diploma



SPORT (FITNESS ACADEMY)

The Level 3 Extended Diploma is a vocational qualification equivalent to three A Levels, consisting of 18 Units. Students will learn about the sports and fitness industry, acquiring underpinning and knowledge that will enable progression into further study or employment within the fitness industry. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.

Successful completion of the extra instructing qualifications within this course programme will give students the required national recognised qualification’s to gain employment directly within the fitness industry without the need for further study or courses.


Through industry links, the Fitness Academy provides students with qualifications, experience and exposure to the profession, ensuring the best possible start to a career in sports and fitness. The staff in the Fitness Academy have many years of experience in this field and still currently practise and use their knowledge on a day to day basis. Working with talented athletes training on our other sports programmes, devising fitness programmes, advising on injuries, nutrition and performance enhancement techniques the Academy students will develop their knowledge in real training situations.

The Colleges excellent sport and fitness facilities onsite allow students to practise and train on industry specification equipment helping to give them meaningful experience of the fitness industry.

In addition to a fantastic learning environment, we offer a multitude of experiences to suit a variety of interests. We run various academies including football (men’s and women’s), rugby and golf and they play competitive fixtures against other colleges. We offer many different extra-curricular activities such as 5 a-side football, badminton, gym club, kayaking, community coaching projects and much much more!

The Sports Department offer two different trips for all students; a winter ski trip to France and a summer watersports adventure to Spain.

Anatomy and physiology

Psychology for Sport

Sports Nutrition

Fitness testing and training

Coaching and sports development.

Instructing Physical Activity


Is it for you?

At Sparsholt College, we ask our students to be prepared for all lessons, either practical or theory based, and apply themselves at all times. A passion for sport or fitness is a must and a desire to learn and develop is key to success on the qualification. We stretch and challenge our students to strive for the best they can achieve; therefore, students require high levels of self-motivation.

You can also gain qualifications in particular areas of interest such as

• Sports massage• Gym instructor

• First aid• FA level 1 coaching badge• Kettlebell instructor• Circuits instructor

Duration

Two years


Continuing Education:A large majority of students have continued to study sport into Higher Education on sport related degrees such as Sport Science, Sports Journalism or Sports Development at Universities including Bath, Loughborough and Exeter.

Employment:Previous students from this course have also progressed into a variety of careers including teaching, sports journalism, physiotherapy, personal training and coaching.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above, or a Level 2 Diploma at merit level.

Level 2 Diploma in SPORT

A BTEC Level 2 Diploma is a nationally recognised full-time programme (equivalent to four GCSEs at A*-C) that covers a range of practical and theoretical aspects of sport. The course provides an ideal opportunity to progress onto the BTEC Level 3 Sport courses or directly into sport.

The course is flexible and allows students to take other subjects alongside it, maximising the likelihood of progression onto a higher level course.

Physiology and anatomy

Psychology

Nutrition

Fitness testing and training

Coaching and sports development



Through industry links, the Fitness Academy provides students with qualifications, experience and exposure to the profession, ensuring the best possible start to a career in sports and fitness. The College’s excellent sport and fitness facilities onsite allow students to practice and train on industry specification equipment helping to give them meaningful experience of the fitness industry.

In addition to a fantastic learning environment, we offer a multitude of experiences to suit a variety of interests. We run various academies including football (men’s and women’s), rugby and golf and they play competitive fixtures against other colleges. We offer many different extracurricular activities such as 5 a-side football, badminton, gym club, kayaking, trampolining, community coaching projects and much much more.

The Sports Department offer two different trips for all students; a winter ski trip to Austria and a summer watersports adventureto Spain.

Is it for you?

At Sparsholt College, we ask our students to be prepared for all lessons, either practical or theory based, and apply themselves at all times. A passion for sport or fitness is a must and a desire to learn and develop is key to success on the qualification. We stretch and challenge our students to strive for the best they can achieve; therefore, students require high levels of self-motivation.

You can also work towards particular areas of interest such as

• Level 1 Gym Instructor• First Fid

Duration

One year


Continuing education:A large majority of students use this course as a stepping stone towards level 3 courses such as the BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport.

Employment:Previous students have then progressed into a variety of careers including teaching, sports journalism, physiotherapy, personal training and coaching.

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade D or above, or a Level 1 Diploma or equivalent.



OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

This course provides practical skills, theory and experience to prepare a career in outdoor activity instruction.

Skills practised throughout the course include climbing, mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing. The course also offers a variety of extended trips and expeditions to develop skills such as leading a team, navigation and camping.

Additional attractions:

Practical experience in the industry is an important element, The second year includes a period of work experience as an Assistant Instructor with an outdoor activity company such as PGL Outdoor Ltd.

Principles of anatomy and physiology in sport and fitness

Fitness testing, training and programming

Expedition leading

Principles and practices in outdoor adventure

Equipment and facilities for outdoor and adventurous activities

Water and land based leadership skills

Impact and sustainability in outdoor adventure


Is it for you?

Students will need to maintain a sufficient level of fitness throughout the course, work on teamwork and communication skills, and participate in a wide range of practical activities.

You can also work towards additional qualifications in industry related skills, such as:

• Climbing: NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme) Levels 1 and 2; CWA (Climbing Wall Award) Training

• Kayaking and Canoeing: BCU Stars (British Canoe Union) 1*,2*,3*; UKCC Coach (UK Coaching Certificate) Level 1

• FSRT (Foundation Safety and Rescue Training)

• Mountain Biking: MIAS (Mountain-Bike Instructors Award Scheme) Level 1 and 2

• Walking Navigation: NNAS (National Navigational Award Scheme) Bronze and Silver

• Power boating and sailing: RYA Power boat (Royal Yachting Association) Level 1 and 2; RYA Dinghy boat sailing (Royal Yachting Association) Level 1, Jet-biking experience

• First Aid: First Aid certificate

All of the additional qualifications are optional and may carry additional fees. It is recommended that applicants set aside approximately £350 for additional training and certification fees and off-site activities and trips.

There may also be opportunities to undertake

subsidised instructor or leader training in some outdoor activities (dependent on demand, age and standard achieved).

Duration

Two years


Continuing education:Progression to higher education, studying sport at degree level.Employment:Employment in the sports or leisure industry, particularly in outdoor activity instruction.

Entry Requirements



Level 2 Diploma in

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

This course provides a good foundation in sport and covers a wide range of subjects related to outdoor activities. The course focuses on fitness testing and training and practical sport activities and there will also be opportunities for planning and participating in expeditions.

Anatomy and physiology for sport

Planning and leading outdoor and adventurous activities

Expedition experience

Development of personal fitness

Nutrition for sports performance

Is it for you?

The course is very practical and students are expected to participate in a variety of sports such as climbing (indoor and outdoor), mountain biking and kayaking together with some team sports.


• BCU Kayaking Stars• Emergency First Aid• Duke of Edinburgh Awards• Sports Leadership Award

There may be an additional charge and students should budget approximately £100.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:• Fitness Training, Sports

Performance and Excellence at Level 3

• Outdoor Adventure at Level 3• Public (Uniformed) Services

at Level 3

Employment:• Employment in the sports or

leisure industry

Entry Requirements




PUBLIC AND UNIFORMED SERVICESThis course provides the skills, preparation, discipline and level of fitness required for a career in the public and uniformed services. All of which are skills that are transferable and relevant to the private sector.


The students on this course will benefit from optional trips to sunny Spain or France to carry out water based adventurous activities as well as a number of trips to different public services to see them working and gain a real life insight. Opportunities to show leadership skills through many activities are always very popular. There are always additional trips such as the yearly skiing trip in the Alps.

Employment in public uniformed services

Public service skills

Physical preparation, health and lifestyle

Sport and recreation

Adventurous outdoor pursuits and expeditions

Nautical studies, including an optional powerboat course

Understanding the impact of war, and crime and its effects on society

Planning and partaking in expeditions

International Institutions

Citizenship and diversity

Course facilities

Students will benefit from extremely motivated and experienced staff. Some of which have served in the public services themselves and can provide first-hand accounts of what life may be like. You will also benefit from excellent sporting facilities and the opportunity for fantastic instruction and use of equipment for the outdoor and adventurous activities units.

Is it for you?

An interest and aptitude for developing leadership skills and team work is essential. A successful student is one that is punctual, well organised and has the self-discipline and motivation to succeed in not only education but all aspects of their life. A successful student will ensure they meet deadlines and are driven by achieving realistic goals.


RYA Dinghy Sailing Awards, BCU Kayaking Stars, BCU First Aid and a fitness instruction qualification that will contribute to your employability and will support your CV.

Duration

Two years


Employment in public uniformed services

Public service skills

Physical preparation, health and lifestyle

Sport and recreation

Nautical studies, including an optional powerboat course

Planning and partaking in expeditions

Citizenship and diversity


Continuing education:Opportunities to study at degree level at university

Employment:Career opportunities in the public and uniformed services or within outdoor activity or a leisure centre as an instructor eg:

• Police Service• NHS

• Fire Brigade• Paramedics• Rescue Services• British Army• Royal Navy• Royal Air Force• Outdoor and Adventurous

Activities Centre Staff

Entry Requirements


Level 2 Diploma in

PUBLIC AND UNIFORMED SERVICES

This course provides the skills, preparation, discipline and level of fitness required for a career in the public and uniformed services. All of which are skills that are transferable and relevant to the private sector.


The students on this course will benefit from optional trips to sunny Spain or France to carry out water based adventurous activities as well as a number of trips to different public services to see them working and gain a real life insight. Opportunities to show leadership skills through many activities are always very popular. There are always additional trips such as the yearly skiing trip in the Alps.


Course facilities

Students will benefit from extremely motivated and experienced staff. Some of which have served in the public services themselves and can provide first-hand accounts of what life may be like. You will also benefit from excellent sporting facilities and the opportunity for fantastic instruction and use of equipment for the outdoor and adventurous activities units.

Is it for you?

An interest and aptitude for developing leadership skills and team work is essential. A successful student is one that is punctual, well organised and has the self-discipline and motivation to succeed in not only education but all aspects

of their life. A successful student will ensure they meet deadlines and are driven by achieving realistic goals.


RYA Dinghy Sailing Awards, BCU Kayaking Stars, BCU First Aid and a fitness instruction qualification that will contribute to your employability and will support your CV.

Duration

One year

Where could it take you?Continuing education:Level 3 Extended Diploma In Public Services

Employment:Career opportunities in the public and uniformed services or within outdoor activity or a leisure centre as an instructor eg:

• Police Service• NHS• Fire Brigade• Paramedics• Rescue Services• British Army• Royal Navy• Royal Air Force• Outdoor and Adventurous

Activities Centre Staff

Entry Requirements



ENGLISH AND MATHSLearning Manager Christine Bridger BAEd (Hons) AIMgt

OCR GCSE English Language (re-sit)

OCR GCSE Mathematics (re-sit)

City & Guilds Entry Level, Level 1 or Level 2

Functional English


Functional Mathematics


ICT (Apprentices only)*

*Apprentices will study the functional skills subjects at the level dictated by their framework.


OCR GCSE

ENGLISH LANGUAGE (re-sit)• Extended literary text and imaginative writing• Speaking, listening and spoken language• Information and ideas• There is potential for a theatre trip in the

Spring term (self-funded)

This one year course allows students the opportunity to re-sit GCSE English as part of their course at Sparsholt College. You will undertake three assessments and one test.

This course will be taught by an experienced team of subject specialists providing a chance to improve a GCSE grade from ‘D’ to ‘C’ – an essential requirement for university applications.

Is it for you?

You will be highly motivated with a positive desire to improve your GCSE grade in English. To be successful, as well as showing good attendance you will need to work on your own – and in your own time – for practise and homework.

Duration

One year


Continuing education: GCSE English at Grade C or above is often a requirement for progression onto university level degree courses.

Employment:GCSE qualifications are recognised and values by employers in all sectors.

Entry Requirements

GCSE English at Grade D

OCR GCSE

MATHEMATICS (re-sit)This one year course allows students the opportunity to re-sit GCSE Maths as part of their course at Sparsholt College. You will undertake three tests.

This course will be taught by an experienced team of subject specialists providing a chance to improve a GCSE grade from ‘D’ to ‘C’ – an essential requirement for university applications and valued by employers in all sectors.

• Develop knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts

• Interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context

• Acquire and use problem solving strategies• Select and apply mathematical techniques

and methods in mathematical, everyday and real-world situations

• Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions

Is it for you?

You will be highly motivated with a positive desire to improve your GCSE grade in Mathematics. To be successful, as well as showing good attendance you will need to work on your own – and in your own time – for practice and homework.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:GCSE Maths at Grade C or above is often a requirement for progression onto university level degree courses.


Employment:GCSE qualifications are recognised and values by employers in all sectors.

Entry Requirements

Students studying Level 3 courses at Sparsholt College who do not have a C grade in GCSE Mathematics

Functional Skills in

ENGLISH, MATHEMATICS

AND ICTEntry Level, Level 1 and Level 2

English, Maths and ICT provide essential transferable skills for success and confidence in study, life and work. These courses apply the skills in many common settings.

All Entry Level and Level 1 and 2 students will take Functional Skills as part of their course at Sparsholt College.

• All the Functional Skills courses support the requirements of a main course programme and enhance the learning experience

• Functional English: This programme covers skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening essential for working life

• Functional Maths: This focuses on analysis, representation and interpretation of scenario based problems using maths. It supports the maths skills needed every day and in vocational contexts

• Functional ICT*: Coverage includes use of IT systems, finding and selecting information and development of skills to develop and communicate information

*Apprentices only

Course facilities

Functional Skills are delivered using a blended approach which incorporates IT and contextualised resources so that students can get the most out of their course at college, the demands of life and are prepared for the workplace.

All lessons are delivered by a team of experienced specialist staff who have close links with every vocational area.

Is it for you?

You will have a positive desire to improve your skills and your can-do attitude will accelerate achievement and prepare you for future study and employment. In short, a commitment to attaining your personal best in everything you do.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:Level 1 or Level 2 English and/or Maths are usually required criteria for College courses.

Employment:These qualifications are recognised and valued by employers in all sectors.

Entry Requirements

Level studied is determined by previous Functional Skills achievement and assessment during college induction. Please note Functional ICT is only available for those on Modern Apprenticeship courses.


Functional Skills in

MATHEMATICS Level 2 (Level 3 Diploma course students only)

Functional Maths provides essential transferable skills for success and confidence in study, life and work. This course applies the skills needed in many common settings.

Assessment consists of one set paper or online test.

• Functional Skills Mathematics will support the requirements of your main course programme and enhance the learning experience

• The focus is on analysis, representation and interpretation of scenario based problems using maths

• This programme supports maths skills needed everyday and in a vocational context

Course facilities

This course will be taught by an experienced team of subject specialists providing a chance to improve your mathematics skills and gain an additional qualification in this subject.

Is it for you?

You will have a positive desire to improve your Mathematics skills and your can-do attitude will accelerate achievement and prepare you for future study and employment. To be successful, as well as showing good attendance you will need to work on your own – and in your own time – for practice and homework.

Duration

One year


Continuing education:A C grade or equivalent Level 2 qualification in Mathematics is often a requirement for progression onto university level degree courses.

Employment:GCSE qualifications are recognised and valued by employers in all sectors.

Entry Requirements

Students studying Level 3 Diploma courses at Sparsholt College who do not have a C grade in GCSE Mathematics.


FINANCIAL SUPPORT There are various means of funding your College expenses which include:

24+ Bursary Fund

Learners who are 24+ and studying a level 3 or above can access the 24+ College Bursary fund as long as they have taken out a tuition fee loan. This bursary is means tested and can help with Accommodation, Exam/registration fees, travel, books and equipment and Childcare costs.

Army FE Bursary Scheme

If you are interested in joining the Army you could be eligible to earn up to a £4,000 cash award to help you through your studies. This is for learners who have completed their Phase 1 Training in the British Army who are studying a Level 2 or higher qualification. This equates to £1,000 for completing the Phase 1 Army training and then a further £1000 for each year you spend at college (maximum 3 years).

As well as the support provided by your tutor, you will have a dedicated Army contact to offer advice and encouragement whenever you need it. The Army also offer work experience, giving you the best opportunities for preparation and development. For further information contact your local Army Careers Office or Army Careers Adviser. (Details can be found at http://army.mod.uk/armyineducation/bursary/febs-award.aspx

16-18 Bursary Fund

Students who meet certain criteria will be eligible for a Government Bursary of up to £1,200 to help them meet the costs of coming to College. These are students who are • In receipt of Income Support • In care • Leaving care • In receipt of both ESA (Employment Support

Allowance) and DLA (Disability Living Allowance)

Residential Bursary

This means-tested bursary is intended to assist students who need to live at College because daily travel is impractical. As a general rule, to qualify for funding:

• your daily journey needs to be in excess of one hour each way per day and you do not live on a College travel route

• you are living in College or rented accommodation, and

• similar local provision is not available within 15 miles of your home

Hardship/Learner Support Funds

If you are 16-18 and do not qualify for the 16-18 Bursary Fund, or if you are 19+, the College also has a discretionary fund which can help those in financial hardship. This fund can help with the costs of travel, books and equipment and any other cost which may become a barrier for you being able to attend college. The fund is means tested and based on the family household income. As a rule, if your household income is below £20,000 you will be able to receive some financial help. For learners with a household income between £20,000 and £30,000 there may still be help available depending on your circumstances.


Career Development Loan

If you are 19 or over, are liable to pay fees, and are not eligible for a 24+ Advanced Learning Loan, you can apply for a Career development loan to pay for your fees. This is a bit like a bank loan except you do not start repaying it until your course has finished. For more information call 0800 100 900 or visit https://www.gov.uk/career-development-loans/overview.

Childcare Support

If you are under 20 and have a child you may be eligible for assistance from the Care to Learn scheme. Further details can be found at www.direct.gov.uk/caretolearn or from the National Careers Service. If you are 20+ and have a household income of less that £30,000 childcare support may be available from the College Learner Support Funds. The College can cover up to 90% of you childcare costs. Childcare providers must be Ofsted registered and proof of expenditure is required. Payments are only made if you have full attendance for any week and are not made during holiday periods.

Further details on all the above schemes are available from the Student Finance Team in Student Administration on 01962 797267.

Other Financial Services

Whilst students are responsible for fees and invoices related to their course we do offer an interest free, ten monthly instalment payment plan by prior arrangement.

It is also recognised that a number of students, both prospective and current, encounter financial difficulties so the Student Finance Team in Student Administration (01962 797267) is always available to offer information, advice and possible solutions. The College also endeavours to gather information on local part-time employment which may be helpful to some students.

Payment of Fees

All students are invoiced for all fees at or before enrolment. You will be expected to pay these fees immediately unless you have made arrangements to pay by instalment. The College offers an interest free instalment plan over a ten month period.

Students who are unable to pay invoices on the required dates must speak to a member of the Finance Team. They will be happy to assist students in financial difficulties by negotiating payment plans.

Alternatively contact Student Finance who will be able to advise students on various sources of funding.

Talk to us first

If you are experiencing financial difficulty that may force you to withdraw from your course please discuss your situation with the Student Finance team before making any decisions. You can find them behind the Student Services office or call on 01962 797267.


Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)

Students should note that they now have a legal obligation to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and others who may be affected by their actions and to comply with the College policy on health and safety, a copy of which is available from the Student Reception or library.

Photographs and Video Recordings of Student Activities

During a student’s course programme, it is possible that photographs may be taken or video recordings made for College marketing or publicity purposes such as inclusion in a course guide, press releases, College DVD, or advertisements.

Where a student or group is the specific subject of the picture or video, the use of such images will be discussed and approval for use sought from individuals concerned.

The College will not use any images for these purposes which, in its opinion, portray a student to their disadvantage; nor will it permit them to be used by any other organisation, other than as stated above, to the College’s or student’s perceived advantage. If you do NOT wish to appear in such images please state your preference not to be included at the time of filming. It should be recognised however, that it is possible that, in general College views, any students may be seen incidentally; for example, as part of the background of an image. Again, no images will be used which, in our opinion, appear to show any of our students to disadvantage.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this course guide is correct as far as can be ascertained at the time of publication and does not, therefore, include any amendments or alterations which may be made subsequent to such publication.

You are, therefore, advised when making application to the College to satisfy yourself as to any amendments or alterations which may affect your particular course.

Whilst the College will make every effort to provide all courses as planned, it is obliged to reserve the right to cancel a course, amend course delivery or reduce the student numbers thereon and this could result in the withdrawal of a place at the College.

Any offer of a place is, therefore, conditional on the College being able to provide the course and, in the unlikely event that it is not able to do so, applicants will be informed individually and the offer will lapse.

In such circumstances, it is usual for a student to be offered a place on a similar or related course or given advice on the nearest alternative course available.


The College Charter Sparsholt College Hampshire incorporating Andover College is committed, within our resources, to providing access and the delivery of high quality learning programmes and opportunities that meet the individual and collective needs of all our learners.

Implicit in this ethos of the College is the belief in the learner at heart of all we do and every learner matters.

The College prepares learners for life through developing their personal endeavour, enterprise and commitment to their course of study together with preparing them for making a worthwhile contribution to the workplace and the community in which they live.

The College Charter has been written to provide information on how the College will meet these commitments and, in return for this service, what the College expects of its learners. It is available in three parts – for students, for employers and for the local community. These are all publicly available on our website at www.sparsholt.ac.uk.

A detailed copy of the College Charter is available for Students on ‘Moodle’ – the College Virtual Learning Environment.

Useful Telephone Numbers

Sparsholt College Hampshire 01962 776441

Fax (central number) 01962 776587

Agriculture 01962 797526

Animal Management

and Veterinary Nursing 01962 797383

Arboriculture, Forestry Studies

and Woodland Management 01962 797548

Foundation Land-based Course 01962 797570

Game, Wildlife and

Conservation Management 01962 797526

Equine Studies 01962 797283

Fishery Studies 01962 797200

Horticulture 01962 797548

Motor Vehicle Technology 01962 797536

Sports and Outdoor Education 01962 797536

Apprenticeships and

Training Programmes 0845 850 0916

Residential Support Coordinator 01962 797486

Student Supports 01962 797274

Additional Learning

Support Coordinator 01962 797211

Student Finance Team 01962 797267

Transport Co-ordinator 01962 797346

Full-time Course Adviser 01962 797280

Full-time Course Guides 01962 797280

Marketing and Schools Liaison 01962 797562

Part-time and

Short Course Adviser 01962 797213

Services for Business 0845 8500916

Children’s Day Nursery 01962 776439

Wessex Conference Centre 01962 797259


Index AAccommodation 8

Agricultural courses 22

Animal Care/Management courses 36

Animal Management Centre 38

Applying to College 17

Apprenticeships 18

Arboriculture courses 54

Awards (Grants) 156

CCampus facilities 13

Careers advice 16

Careers events 2

Catering 13

Conservation courses 66

Countryside Day 3

Countryside management 66

Course levels 15

DDay care nursery 13

EEnrolment 17

Equal Opportunities policy 11

English 152

Equine courses 74

Equine facilities 75

Engineering 34 | 124

FFarm resources 23

Fees information 9

Financial support 156

Fishery courses 88

Fish facilities 89

Football Academy 138

Forestry courses 54

Foundation Studies Programme 100

Functional Skills 152

GGame and Wildlife Management 106

Gamekeeping 106

Golf Academy 139

Grants and awards 156

HHigher Education courses 5

Horse facilities 75

Horse Management courses 74

Horticultural courses 116

Horticultural facilities 117

IInternational Students 11

L Learning support 7

Location inside back cover

MMaths 152

Mature students 10

Mission statement inside front cover

Motor vehicle courses 124

OOpen Days 2

Outdoor Adventure 146 | 148

P Parking 8

Public Uniformed Services courses 149 | 150

QQualifications explained 15

RRecreational facilities 13

SSports Academy 138

Sports courses 134

Social life 12

Student support 8

T Taster days 6

Telephone numbers 159

Travelling to the College 8

V Veterinary Nursing 50

Vision and values inside front cover

W Women’s Football Academy 139


ANDOVER

Newbury

A342

Upper Clatford

Abbotts Ann

A303

A34

Leckford

Wherwell

A343

A3057

A3057

A30

Nether Wallop

Stockbridge

King’s Somborne

RomseyA27

A3090

Crawley

Littleton

Sparsholt Village

B3049

B3049

B3420

Kings Worthy

South Wonston

MicheldeverB3420

A303

Popham

London

OvertonWhitchurch

Cheriton

Itchen Abbas

Morestead

Twyford

Colden Common

Southampton

WINCHESTER

SPARSHOLTCOLLEGE

A31

10

11

11

M3

12

M3

7

B

A30

Basingstoke

B3048

B3400

B3404

B3047

B3046

New Alresford

B3335

A272

A272

A30A33

9

Sparsholt College HampshireSparsholt, Winchester, Hampshire

SO21 2NF United Kingdom

01962 776441

[email protected]

www.sparsholt.ac.uk

www.facebook.com/sparsholtcollege

www.twitter.com/Sparsholt_Coll

www.youtube.com/SparsholtCollegeSCH

Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2NF

www.sparsholt.ac.uk

www.facebook.com/SparsholtCollege

01962 776441

sparsholt fe 2014 prospectus

Documents

sparsholt college

college charter

college campus

specialist college

sparsholt student

higher education

education course guide

international students