Learn what’s involved in converting to organic farming with this 4-day / 2-weekend course in Organic Farmer Principles. Taught by Grace Maher, the practical organic course is QQI Level 5 certified, and is accepted to gain access onto the Organic Farming Scheme.

The course will run in Kilkenny across two weekends in June – Friday 7th / Saturday 8th, and Friday 21st / Saturday 22nd. It will be in Hotel Kilkenny on weekend 1, and the Newpark Hotel on weekend 2.

Please note, places are limited, so sign up ASAP to confirm your place.

This National Organic Training Skillnet programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, the European Union, and network companies via the ESF+ (European Social Fund) initiative. Please note, you will be asked to fill out a short survey in order to fulfill the funding requirements. You can complete this survey form online via the link that will be emailed to you, or by filling out a hard copy on Day 1 of the course.

Course Cost: €200 when you sign up through NOTS

Course Timetable:

• Weekend 1 – Hotel Kilkenny:
  • Friday June 7th (Classroom Session 5.00pm – 9:30pm)
  • Saturday June 8th (Classroom Sessions + Organic Farm Visit 9.00am —4.00pm)

  Weekend 2 – Newpark Hotel:

  • Friday June 21st (Classroom Session 5.00pm – 9:30pm)
  • Saturday June 22nd (Classroom Sessions + Organic Farm Visit + Examination – 9.00am —4.00pm)

Course Content / Modules:

• Review the origin and history of organic production
• State the principles of organic production
• Interpret the Organic Standards
• How to complete an organic conversion plan
• Assess the economic viability and market opportunities for organic production.
• Preparing a business plan for farmers considering conversion
• Background to organic production
• Principles of organic production
• Organic Standards
• Economics of organic production
• Organic Scheme requirements