How the scheme works
Work-based learning
As an apprentice, you will spend two years as a paid employee on an organic holding under the guidance of an expert farmer or grower, who will also act as your mentor during the whole of your apprenticeship.
The following organic farms and growers are amongst those that have hosted apprentices so far:
We are always looking for more host farms, so if you are interested please do get in touch.
Core Modules
The Apprenticeship Scheme aims to provide greater knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of organic land use. The following modules form the basis of the scheme:
- Organic principles
- The living soil
- Manures and composts
- Weed, pest and disease control
- Conversion to an organic system and standards
- Environmental conservation
Further specialist modules cover horticulture and we are in the process of developing new agriculture modules.
There will also be the opportunity to gain knowledge of farm-based education, business planning, marketing and various alternative models including community supported agriculture (CSA).
Seminars
The Apprenticeship Scheme includes 16 seminars across the two years held at a range of diverse and inspirational organic farms and smallholdings around the country and taught by expert growers and farmers.
The seminars are based on the core and specialist modules.
Projects
The project is a crucial part of the Apprenticeship Scheme and the chance to really delve deeply into a subject that interests you. Here are some examples of projects written by apprentices in 2010:
Other benefits and resources
- Soil Association Producer Membership
- Subscription to Living Earth and Organic Farmer magazines
- Access to a range of technical support, resources and events
- Building lasting relationships with experts in the organic farming and growing community.
- Post-apprenticeship support to help find work through contacts with the Soil Association and Organic Growers Alliance.
Fees
The Apprentice Scheme fees are £1,600 for each year towards the cost of providing the scheme including seminars, learning materials, events and other resources. This includes a non-refundable deposit of £350 which is to be paid once your place is confirmed.The remainder of £2,850 is to be paid over the two years, using one of the following options: by cheque or credit card in two instalments or by direct debit iIn 20 monthly instalments of £142.50.
The Soil Association are committed to supporting potential apprentices and can offer financial advice (i.e. on such as i.e. funding, low-interest loans and fundraising).
For further details on the Scheme’s payment structure contact Rachel Harries rharries@soilassociation.org
Download the Organic Apprenticeship Scheme Overview [1.1 MB]