Adult Training And Life Long Learning Programme
Meeting the statutory and practical training requirements of adult Irish farmers.
The aim of the Teagasc programme for Adult Training and Life Long Learning is to meet the statutory and practical training requirements of adult Irish farmers.
With the ever-changing role of farming, especially in relation to the environment, animal welfare, nutrient management and business development, the farming practitioners of today must keep themselves continuously informed. To meet this demand, Teagasc Advisory provides a comprehensive range of adult training programmes at local offices in each county. Courses cover a wide range of subject matter, from leading-edge technology and financial business training to forestry, environment management, food safety, animal welfare, occupational safety and equine management.
What is the programme?
The Adult Training Programme also includes a comprehensive information technology (IT) training course for farmers in the practical application of computers in running the farm business. Details of these IT training courses are available from local Teagasc offices. In addition to these formal courses, Teagasc also facilitates and conducts discussion group sessions in all the major farm enterprises in every county.
Up to 9,000 farmers attend our adult courses each year. Some are full-time farmers who are improving their efficiency by analysing their current situation and learning to use better technology and management practices. Others are helped to look at diversified enterprises which provide additional income, while many others attend in order to qualify for certain grants schemes and exemptions.
County and College Integration
Based on a recommendation of the review of the Teagasc Education and Training Programme, there will be enhanced integration of Teagasc’s education and training function with its advisory and research functions. This development will further improve the quality of adult education provided by Teagasc. This enhanced integration of colleges and local training centres will be co-ordinated by the recently established Regional Working Committees (RWC) between each college and the local Teagasc Area Units.
Delivery
The programme is provided through a network of 18 Education Officers located throughout Ireland. These are supported by Teagasc advisers and researchers.
For further information on any adult course or discussion group in your county, please contact your local Teagasc Area Manager, Education Officer, or your local Teagasc Adviser.
Costs of the programme
The programme is 62% funded from National Exchequer sources under the National Development Plan.
Duration
The programme is ongoing under the National Development Plan (NDP 2007 – 2013).
