Trainee Farmer / Grower (Work-Based Training) - Biodynamic Agricultural College (BDAC)
Biodynamic Agricultural College (BDAC)
Apply NowWant to kickstart a hands-on career in ecological farming? Join BDAC’s Trainee Farmer/Grower programme: earn an Ofqual‑regulated Level 3 Diploma while employed on real training farms, build practical skills, connect with mentors and fast-track your path to uni or a green career.
BDAC’s work-based Trainee Farmer / Grower programme offers a pathway into ecological farming for new entrants and career changers, with no prior farming background required. The programme delivers the UK’s only Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Diploma in Biodynamic Farming & Growing through placements on real training farms and seasonal seminars, awarded by Crossfields Institute and delivered by BDAC.
Participants are employed as trainees on matched training farms with an employment contract, working approximately 35-44 hours per week (seasonal variation). Trainees earn wages at minimum wage or above, receive professional mentoring and structured skill progression, and graduate with practical skills for roles in market gardens, CSAs, agroecology, horticulture and regenerative farming.
Training fees are required: a £500 initial payment plus 24 monthly payments of £360 (these monthly payments include seminars, seminar accommodation & lunches, assessment, QA, registration and certification). Entry requirements include being 18+ (21+ recommended), GCSE-equivalent (Level 2), physical capacity for outdoor work, motivation for self-directed study, and 3-6 months land-based experience preferred.
Seminars run on a continuous rotation, allowing flexible start dates once placement is agreed.
Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Diploma in Biodynamic Farming & Growing (awarded by Crossfields Institute)
28 Feb 2026
2026 intake
Location
- 18+ (21+ recommended)
- GCSE-equivalent education (Level 2)
- Physical capacity for outdoor work
- Motivation for self-directed study
- 3-6 months land-based experience preferred (suggested routes such as WWOOF or volunteering if no experience)
Minimum wage or above; wages typically cover living costs and fees. Accommodation/produce may be provided depending on placement (varies).
£500
Training fee structure: £500 initial payment plus 24 monthly payments of £360. (The £360 monthly payments include seminars, seminar accommodation & lunches, assessment, QA, registration and certification.) Wages from placements typically contribute to covering living costs and fees.
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