Intent
Pupils will work on the Introduction to Land Based Studies certificate to complete a range of practical tasks. The course is largely based at Littlegate Farm, to enable pupils to learn animal management and moving and feeding techniques, as well as basic estate management.
The pupils will work in real life contexts and complete practical assignments in a vocational setting. Hands on animal care is a core part of the course and pupils will time on site at the farm, getting to know the animals and learn about health and safety and farm routines.
Pupils spend the majority of their allocated curriculum time on this one year course at Little Gate Farm. They complete the two compulsory units; ‘Being Organised’ and ‘Developing a Personal Progression Plan’ at school, then focus on the 3 optional units as practical tasks within the farm setting.
Pupils are required to work collaboratively to assist with the care of a range of farm animals and livestock. They are required to show through their assignment briefs their ability to produce care and feeding plans, assist with the handling of animals, monitor healthy, sick and injured animals and prepare suitable animal accommodation.
The 3 practical units that are studied in 22-23 are: ‘Caring for and feeding animals’, Maintaining the health of animals’ and ‘Using practical tools in a workshop setting’.
They produce a portfolio of work in response to an agreed brief for each unit and this is internally assessed, before sampling takes place to verify awards.
As an option choice we also offer BTEC Level 1 introductory Award and for some pupils, the Level 1 Introductory Certificate in Land Based Studies. There are up to 5 units for the pupils to take. The course is largely practical, with pupils spending up to one long morning a week at Little Gate Farm, near Rye. The pupils complete tasks including the care, feeding and handling of livestock and animals, as well as learning about the agriculture and farm industry. Pupils are fully supported by school and farm staff and expected to develop the skills needed to ensure the animals’ needs are met and that the safety of all those involved is maintained. Pupils produce a portfolio of evidence of themselves completing the tasks in a farm setting.
Headteacher Amanda Jagot
