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BTEC Introductory Diploma in Land-based Studies

Plumpton College

Ditchling Road, Plumpton, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 3AE

BTEC First Award
Level 1
Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Care

Available start dates

Available start dates

Saturday, 26 September 2026
Plumpton College
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

Interested in agriculture and keen to develop practical skills while learning at a pace that suits you?

The BTEC Level 1 Certificate in Agriculture is a great starting point if you’re interested in farming and the wider land based industries, but have limited practical experience. This hands-on course will introduce you to Agriculture while helping you build the skills, knowledge and confidence you need for your next step. You’ll learn through a combination of classroom sessions, practical activities and work-based tasks. Based at our working farm and specialist facilities, you’ll gain experience with livestock, crops, machinery and everyday farm operations- all while developing your confidence working outdoors.

Alongside your agricultural studies, you may also have the opportunity to continue working towards English and maths qualifications where required. Whether you want to progress to a higher-level agriculture course or begin working in the land-based sector, this course will give you a solid foundation for your future.


Course Details

As part of the course, you’ll complete a series of practical work booklets covering topics such as:


  • Getting organised and working with others
  • Developing a personal progression plan
  • Researching a topic
  • Finding out about the land based sector
  • Caring for and feeding animals
  • Moving and accommodating animals
  • Growing plants and preparing soil for planting
  • Using land based machinery


Entry requirements

3 GCSEs at Grade 2 and above to include English and Maths OR an Entry level qualification in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 2 or functional skills entry level 3



Equipment required

Students on a 14-16, Level 1, 2, 3, or Foundation Learning course may be required to purchase equipment such as a uniform, PPE, or kit before starting their course. Material fees are applicable depending depending on the course studied. Equipment & PPE

Your next steps...

After successfully completing the course, you can progress to the City & Guilds Level 2 Technical Certificate in Agriculture and continue developing your knowledge and practical skills. Alternatively, you could take your first steps into an entry-level role within the agricultural or wider land based industries, putting your new skills into practice.


Additional information


For more courses like this, check our courses page.