Expand+Students who do not wish to pursue a full-time horticultural programme with Teagasc can opt to complete a single module or a number of modules on a part-time basis.

The course will equip students with the knowledge, skills and competence to operat...

Hide-Students who do not wish to pursue a full-time horticultural programme with Teagasc can opt to complete a single module or a number of modules on a part-time basis.

The course will equip students with the knowledge, skills and competence to operate and maintain a range of hand and powered horticultural machinery and implements. It is designed for people who wish to further their knowledge and experience of the safe use and maintenance of a wide range of hand and pedestrian operated equipment used in the horticultural sector.

The Teagasc college at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin and Kildalton College, Co. Kilkenny are offering a QQI Level 5 component award in Horticultural Mechanisation which will equip the learner with the knowledge, skills and competence to operate and maintain a range of hand and powered horticultural machinery and implements. The course will lead to a minor award at NFQ level 5 in Horticulture Mechanisation (5N2559).

Who should Apply?
This course is designed for people who are currently pursuing careers in any of the various horticultural sectors and who wish to further their knowledge and experience of the safe use and maintenance of a wide range of hand and pedestrian operated equipment used in the horticulture sector. This subject is worth 15 credits which can be counted towards further studies at Level 5. By taking other Level 5 modules, students may be able to build towards a full major award of QQI L5 Certificate in Horticulture.

** This module will be delivered at the College campus in Teagasc in Ashtown, Dublin 15.

Course Structure
The course will be offered in one 4 hour session per week over a 28 week period. Each session will comprise of lectures and hands-on practical / demonstration exercises.

Skills learned throughout the year will be assessed at regular intervals. Students will be supplied with appropriate PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) but they will be required to have safety boots and appropriate work trousers for each of the practical / demonstration sessions. Please contact the college of your choice for precise details on the course structure, delivery and current fees.

Expand+Module Content
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
• Identify a range of machinery and hand tools
• Use a range of hand tools for soil cultivation
• Describe the working principles of internal combustion engines used in ...

Hide-Module Content
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
• Identify a range of machinery and hand tools
• Use a range of hand tools for soil cultivation
• Describe the working principles of internal combustion engines used in horticulture
• Use a range of hand operated mowers
• Use a pedestrian operated rotary cultivator
• Use a hedge trimmer
• Use a strimmer
• Use a knapsack or tractor-mounted sprayer
• Service a diesel or a two and four stroke petrol engine