Teagasc signals deadline for third-level courses

Those applying for Teagasc’s agricultural and horticultural courses have until this Friday to submit their forms for the coming academic year.

Six Teagasc colleges offer level-five and level-six programmes in agriculture.

These include the three Teagasc colleges, Ballyhaise, Clonakilty, and Kildalton, and the three Teagasc-linked private agricultural colleges, namely Gurteen, Mountbellew, and the Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry.

All of the agricultural colleges are also involved with partner higher-education institutions.

Meanwhile, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin, and Kildalton College, in Co Kilkenny, offer level-five and level-six horticultural programmes.

Teagasc head of education, Tony Pettit, said the Green Cert is a prerequisite for many young-farmer incentive schemes.

He added: “Most adults are not in a position to attend full-time college courses. However, for some adults the agricultural-college option has proven to be a very suitable option and should not be discounted.

"Teagasc colleges and private college can advise individuals on the best options.”