Learn what’s involved in converting to organic farming with this 4-day / 2-weekend course in Organic Farmer Principles. Taught by Andrew Chilton, 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 Stranorlar, Co Donegal across two weekends in May – Friday 16 / Saturday 17th, and Friday 30th / Saturday 31st.

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

European Social Fund +

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.

The European Social Fund + supports training across a wide range of industry sectors and geographical regions. The aim of the ESF+ programme is to invest in people with the objective of achieving high employment levels, fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce for the future world of work.  ESF + funding will also improve employment opportunities by providing training to up-skill and reskill, lifelong learning, and education measures with a focus on those who face greater challenges in accessing the labour market. The ESF+ will contribute to reducing the risk of poverty and social exclusion, with an emphasis on disadvantaged groups. Learn more on European Funding here: www.eufunds.ie

Course Cost: €200 when you sign up through NOTS

Course Timetable:

• Weekend 1:
  • Friday May 16th (Classroom Session 5.00pm – 9:30pm)
  • Saturday May 17th (Classroom Sessions + Organic Farm Visit 9.00am —4.00pm)

  Weekend 2:

  • Friday May 30th (Classroom Session 5.00pm – 9:30pm)
  • Saturday May 31st (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