University College Isle of Man (UCM) has been working with the Manx National Farmers Union (MNFU) to launch a trial of new courses for the Agricultural industry.
The University College has launched its first tranche of adult courses specifically tailored for farmers and people in the industry. The five courses will be run as a trial, with further courses planned.
UCM is rolling out the courses following consultation with the MNFU which identified courses to support the farming community or where there is a legal requirement.
The courses include Tractor Driving & Related Operations, Basic Stockmanship & Welfare, Safe Transport of Animals (Short Journey), Telehandler Award and Computers for Farmers - Basic Book Keeping and use of Social Media.
The courses are predominantly accredited by City & Guilds and include either a form of assessment or exam.
(Ms) Kerry Birchall, who runs UCM’s professional courses offering, commented: “We’re delighted to be offering these new courses which are specifically developed and tailored to the needs of our fantastic local agricultural industry. It’s been a pleasure working with the Manx National Farmer’s Union on this project. Partnerships like this enable us to run courses which are highly relevant to the Island’s business community to help them develop further. I look forward to working with them, and other industry partners, on our new offering.”
UCM will be working with the MNFU to develop further courses which will be announced at the relaunch of the University College’s business and professional courses in the new year.