Level 2 General Farm Worker Apprenticeship
The Level 2 General Farm Worker Apprenticeship provides a solid foundation for anyone beginning a career in agriculture. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience across a range of farming operations — developing the essential skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to work confidently and safely within a modern farm environment.
Delivered nationally by Skern Training & Skills, this programme combines expert teaching, on-the-job experience, and flexible learning to support both apprentices and employers in achieving success.
During this apprenticeship learners will:
- Care for livestock — feed, monitor health, and assist with breeding and welfare.
- Support crop and forage production — from planting and harvesting to storage.
- Operate agricultural machinery and vehicles safely and efficiently.
- Maintain farm buildings, boundaries, and equipment.
- Implement environmentally responsible practices, including waste management and conservation.
- Record data, monitor performance, and support sustainable farm management.
Core Knowledge Areas
Health, safety, and legal requirements in agriculture
Livestock systems and production principles
- Types of livestock systems and production methods
- Principles of animal welfare, health, and biosecurity
- How breeding cycles and nutrition support productivity
Crop, forage, and seasonal farming systems
- Crop and forage growth cycles and requirements
- Seasonal influences on farm planning and operations
- The relationship between soil, climate, and crop performance
Farm equipment, technology, and infrastructure
- Categories of machinery, tools, and farm technology
- The role of equipment in efficient farm systems
- Understanding farm layouts, buildings, and infrastructure
Soil, environment, and sustainable farming
- Soil health, water management, and environmental protection
- Environmental regulations affecting agriculture
- Principles of sustainable and regenerative farming
Key Skills
Machinery and equipment operation
- Operate farm machinery and vehicles safely, legally and efficiently.
- Carry out routine maintenance and safety checks on agricultural equipment.
Livestock care and welfare
- Perform day-to-day livestock husbandry tasks, including feeding and health monitoring.
- Conduct welfare checks and assist with breeding and parturition under supervision.
- Follow strict biosecurity and animal welfare standards at all times.
Crop and forage production
- Prepare, maintain, and store crops and forage throughout the production cycle.
- Support planting, harvesting and storage operations to maintain crop quality and yield.
Farm management and sustainability
- Monitor and maintain farm infrastructure, including boundaries, buildings and water systems.
- Recognise and act on environmental risks to promote sustainable and responsible farming practices.
Programme Details
Duration
This apprenticeship will typically take 12 months.
Entry Requirements
- A keen interest in farming as a career.
- GCSE Grade 1 (or equivalent) in English and Maths.
- Learners must achieve Functional Skills Level 1 and work towards Level 2 before completion.
- Applicants must have a suitable employer or be actively seeking one.
Expected Outcomes
On completion, apprentices will:
- Be confident and competent in daily farm operations.
- Demonstrate safe and sustainable working practices.
- Achieve the Level 2 General Farm Worker Apprenticeship Standard.
- Be well-prepared to progress to higher-level apprenticeships or roles within agriculture.
- Complete mandatory qualifications:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (minimum one day).
- City & Guilds Level 2 Award or Lantra Certificate in Safe Application of Pesticides Using Pedestrian Handheld Equipment.
Why Choose Skern?
With 50 years of experience delivering high-quality, practical training, Skern Training & Skills is a trusted provider of apprenticeships that support real workplace development.
Our agriculture programmes are designed in partnership with employers to reflect modern farming practice, sustainability priorities, and business needs. We focus on flexible, relevant training that helps apprentices contribute effectively from day one.
- Experienced training provider – over five decades of delivering high-quality learning
- National delivery – training provided across the UK by experienced trainers
- Tailored learning – programmes adapted to your organisation’s values and context
- Flexible delivery – one-to-one coaching, group sessions, and e-learning
- Experiential learning – residential opportunities at our North Devon centres or partner venues
- Practical, work-based learning – embedded within everyday farm operations
- End-to-end support – guidance from enrolment through to assessment and completion
Get the brochure
For full details of our General Farm Worker apprenticeship programme.
Funding
This apprenticeship can be fully funded through your Apprenticeship Levy Account if you are a Levy-paying employer.
If you are a Non-Levy paying employer, the government will fund 95% of the total cost, with the employer contributing the remaining 5%.
However, for apprentices aged 16 to 21, the government will fully fund 100% of the cost, with no employer contribution required.
Additionally, Skern can support you in identifying and applying for Levy Transfer funds, which can cover the full cost for other age groups—making the apprenticeship 100% fully funded for all eligible learners.
Register your interest
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