TAFE course caters for farm hand training

TAFE Gippsland is set to deliver a new course this year that will enable individuals to work as assistant farm hands on Gippsland farms.

The course is the nationally recognised AHC20116 Certificate II in Agriculture that has been specifically designed for people who wish to start a professional career in the Gippsland food and fibre industries.

The course will be delivered over a 20-week period. Participants will experience a mixture of in-class learning, practical hands-on training as well as field visits to local industry.

They will be supported to undertake industry placement throughout the course, so they can put their new skills into action right away.

TAFE Gippsland Head of Department Luke Prime said “our teachers and instructors will guide the participants every step of the way, making sure they’re confident and they feel supported to take the next steps in their learning journey in the Gippsland food and fibre industries.”

“They’ll visit a wide variety of food and fibre businesses across the region, that will showcase the rich variety of career pathways that are available in Gippsland from dairy farming through to hydroponic food production,” Mr Prime said.

Over the 20 week course, participants will be trained to carry out routine tasks under general supervision and limited autonomy.

As part of a new delivery format for this course, participants will have access to Lardner Park’s first-class facilities for specialised training.

They’ll be introduced to the operation of tractors and other machinery, fence building, as well as cultivation and planting of their own pasture or crop plot. They will also have the opportunity to obtain an AgVET chemical users certificate.

Participants will be encouraged to undertake a 100-hour practical placement during the course with a local food and fibre business to gain invaluable work experience.

“A practical placement helps to prepare a new entrant to agriculture for the workforce, providing a vital link with the local employment pathways. We’re looking for placement host employers for students to undertake their voluntary practical placement.

“This is a great opportunity to share your passion for your industry and to raise the quality of those entering the industry,” Mr Prime said.

By the time the participants finish the program, they will have relevant industry experience and knowledge of the Gippsland food and fibre career pathways which will come in useful when they’re looking for employment.

Practical placement has enormous benefits for students, TAFE Gippsland and employers. It allows students to combine simulated workplace learning with on the job training and practice in the workplace.

“Where else do people get a go; they’ve got to start somewhere with people willing to teach them,” said Drouin dairy farmer Rose Atherton.

“It is an opportunity for a newbie to work alongside a farmer and learn the basics. Hopefully they enjoy their experience.”

An information session will be held on Thursday at 7pm at the Baw Baw Skills Centre, 71 Wills Street, Warragul.

For more information got to the website of phone 8797 2803.