School of Agriculture, Equine and Food Supply
The School of Agriculture is the oldest School at the RAC. Its friendly and professional staff are committed to providing opportunities for young people to engage in learning through visits, activities and taster days which run throughout the year. The School offers many opportunities for young people to be enthused and inspired, and to experience and explore courses and careers in the fields of agriculture, equine and food supply management.
So what’s it all about?
Agriculture
Agriculture is the science, art and business of farming, and it’s a more challenging and rewarding subject than many people realise! People engaged in and studying agriculture are responsible for ensuring that our food, fibres, energy and recreational opportunities are cheap, high quality and safe. This means taking into account everything from animal welfare to environmental and socio-economic conditions and needs. With the School of Agriculture, you may in involved in exploring animal management and welfare, crop production, mechanisation, farming systems, policy and development or finance and farm business management. There’s a huge range of topics that can be studied in-depth individually, or delivered as part of a general overview of the topic.
Equine
Good news for those interested in the world of horses, as over the past ten years large scale development of the horse industry has meant that a wealth of new career opportunities have opened up. For example, you could set your sights on management of equine establishments such as riding schools, livery yards and racecourses. Or, if you’re more science-minded, perhaps a career in horse nutrition would suit you better? Whatever your aspiration, the equine team at the RAC have a course to suit you. What’s more, our unsurpassed industry contacts will ensure that your employment potential at the end of the course is maximised.
Food Supply Management
If you’ve got an appetite for food matters our degree with the title of Food Production and Supply Management is the degree choice of study for you. You’ll explore modern production methods used in farming and the role of food chains working together to produce safe and sustainable food products. The course will examine crop and livestock food chains and includes the study of science and business associated with food production. Such a programme of study will lead to career opportunities ranging from consumer support, marketing, food service and retailing, food processing, manufacture and distribution.
What exactly can we do?
Whether you’ve got a strong passion for agriculture already, thinking about it as an option or even if you just want to explore what it involves, you’d be very welcome to join us in our activities. We run taster sessions for schools and colleges, which can be general or can focus on specific units or topics from the National Curriculum to enhance what you’re doing in school. We’re also involved in residential schools and community projects. Have a look at what we’ve been doing and get your teachers to contact us or send an enquiry form if you’re interested in an activity. We look forward to hearing from you!
Activities at the College
From full lectures to interactive workshops, practical lab sessions, farm tours and outdoor pursuits…whatever your learning preference, there will be something to stimulate your mind and get you involved. Here’s some of the days we’ve already done…but there’s nothing to stop you getting in touch to discuss other opportunities!
Field to Plate: food and agriculture
Agriculture: development and change since 1950’s
Residential Schools
The School of Agriculture is involved in summer residential schools, which not only give students a chance to really explore learning and courses, but also provide the perfect opportunity to get involved and experience life at university. These courses are extremely successful and very rewarding, as participants leave with a UNIque experience.
Outreach and Community
It’s not just about you coming to us…we can come to you, too! We’re very enthusiastic about work in schools and with community projects, which traditionally have centred around development of allotments and conservation projects. Our staff and students alike have been involved in setting up allotments and growing areas ten local primary schools, working with the children to develop a fun and engaging learning resource. We’re also in the process of developing our on-site food centre allotments, as well as taking part in the LEAF open farm days. Our tutors are also very willing to deliver sessions on career progression and courses at the College in schools and colleges. If you would like to know more or make a request about outreach activities, please do so via the enquiry form.
Anything else..?
As a matter of fact, yes!
The university’s Disabilities and Dyslexia Officer, John Conway, is one of the School of Agriculture’s lecturers. Providing support for students with disabilities, John works to make study life accessible and equal for all students throughout the university. He helps students with dyslexia assessments and disability requirements, ensuring that all students get the support they are entitled to throughout their time with us. He’s approachable, friendly and confidential – so if you have a learning need, all you have to do is ask.
The School of Agriculture is also home to the International Rural Development course, which means we have students from all over the world. These students provide a wealth of culture and learning opportunities as we learn from each other in the current global environment. Our international dimension gives us extra value that we’re really proud of.
So, if you’re interested in what we have to offer, then…