Animal and plant production

Animal Production

Knowledge on various types of livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, and understanding each species’ specific needs and habits.
Understanding the importance of a balanced diet for livestock, including necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
Familiarity with the correct handling and housing methods for each species, focusing on animal welfare standards.
Appreciation of how seasonal changes can affect feed requirements, animal behaviour, and breeding cycles.

Understanding of common livestock diseases, their symptoms, treatment options, and prevention methods.
Familiarity with routine health checks, vaccinations, and the correct usage of veterinary medicines.
Recognising the signs of poor welfare and stress in animals.
Knowledge of legislations and codes of practice regarding animal welfare in farming practices.

Understanding basic animal genetics and the implications of selective breeding for improving stock quality.
Knowledge of different breeding methods, like natural mating, artificial insemination, and embryo transfer.
Familiarity with livestock reproduction processes, gestation periods, and recognising signs of labour in animals.
Capacities to aid in the birthing process if required, and provide care to newborn livestock and their mothers.

Understanding of basic plant biology including plant structure, photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction.
Knowledge on different types of plants suitable for agricultural production, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and forage crops.
Familiarity with the specific requirements of these crops, such as sunlight, water, nutrition, and temperature.
Understanding how soil type, pH and structure can affect plant growth and health.

Ability to prepare soil for planting, including ploughing, harrowing, and creating seed drills or planting holes.
Understanding of different irrigation methods like drip irrigation, sprinklers, and centre pivot systems.
Knowledge of how to use fertilisers and pesticides responsibly, balancing crop health and yield with environmental concerns.
Skills in harvesting crops at the optimal time to maximise quality and yield, using either manual or mechanised methods.

Recognition of common plant pests and diseases, their symptoms, prevention methods, and treatments.
Understanding of the importance of regular monitoring and quick reactions to minimise crop damage.
Familiarity with integrated pest management strategies that combine physical, biological, and chemical methods to control pests.
Comprehension of the impacts that climate change can have on the prevalence and spread of plant pests and diseases.

Recognition of the importance of sustainable farming practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic farming.
Understanding how these methods can help to preserve soil health, increase biodiversity, and reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Knowledge of how to manage water effectively, considering the local climate and the specific water requirements of different crops.
Familiarity with marketing and selling produce, including the opportunities and challenges of selling directly to consumers or through local markets.