Who can enrol?

This programme welcomes experienced farm workers with at least 3 years of practical experience on sheep, beef or deer farms, or those with relevant Level 3 qualifications. Perfect for current farm employees ready to move into supervisory positions, or experienced workers seeking formal recognition of their skills and career progression opportunities in farming qualifications.

What makes this course effective?

Real-world, work-based learning: Study while working on your current farm, applying new knowledge immediately to daily operations and building skills that employers value in supervisory roles across New Zealand's agricultural sector.

Industry partnership expertise: Developed with Growing Future Farmers and working farmers across New Zealand, ensuring training reflects current industry needs and practices for modern farming qualifications.

Flexible blended delivery: Combine on-the-job learning with just one online evening class per week, making it possible to study agriculture courses while maintaining full-time employment on your farm.

Comprehensive support network: Receive academic guidance from Skills Institute tutors, pastoral care from Growing Future Farmers, and three annual farm visits for hands-on assessment and mentorship throughout your farming qualification journey.

What does this course cover?

Our Level 4 agriculture programme develops three essential management areas for comprehensive farming qualifications:

Production planning and livestock management

Advanced health, breeding and feeding programme development and implementation
Livestock performance monitoring and production optimisation strategies
Environmental planning and sustainability practices for modern farming operations
Compliance management and regulatory requirement understanding for NZ agriculture

Farm technology and operations coordination

Modern farm management software including FarmIQ and digital coordination tools
Equipment maintenance planning, implementation and cost management
Daily task coordination using technology-driven systems
Data collection, analysis and reporting for farm performance improvement

Leadership and business management skills

Farm management report creation and performance analysis
Team supervision, training and workplace safety coordination
Cost control, budgeting and resource allocation for farm operations
Communication skills for working with farm owners, staff and agricultural service providers

What qualifications will you gain?

Graduates receive the New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture Level 4, a nationally recognised farming qualification that demonstrates proven competence in farm supervision and management. This agriculture qualification is highly valued by employers across New Zealand's livestock sector and provides pathways to senior management roles in farming and agribusiness.

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