In 2023 the first apprentices enrolled in the Farm Technician (NFQ Level 6), Farm Manager (NFQ Level 7), Horticulturist (NFQ Level 6) and Sportsturf Management (NFQ Level 6) apprenticeship programmes. The apprenticeship model is “earn and learn”: apprentices are in full-time employment, gaining a formal qualification through on-the-job training with a workplace mentor and supported by off-the-job training at the college.
These apprenticeships emphasise skills development and practical, work-based learning, supplemented by industry events that provide access to current and future research and to innovative, sustainable practices specific to each occupation.
The national graduation ceremony will take place on 4 February 2026 with 47 apprentices graduating.
See Photo 1- Teagasc National Beef Open Day, Grange – Farm Technician Apprentices attended to understand the application of technologies for beef farmers to increase profitability and environmental sustainability, organised by Dr. Orla Neville, Teagasc Farm Technician Apprenticeship Co-ordinator. Marcella Phelan, Teagasc National Apprenticeship Programmes Specialist also in attendance. Module – Sustainable Farm Production👇
See Photos 2 and 3 – Kildalton College Sportsturf Machinery Shed – Sportsturf apprentices completing practical skills as part of the Turfgrass Equipment: Set Up Maintenance Operation module. Eamon Kealy is the Teagasc Sportsturf Apprenticeship Co-ordinator. 👇
Thanks to Marcella Phelan, Teagasc National Apprenticeship Programmes Specialist for compiling the article
