Markethill High School
Believe To Achieve
Agriculture
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN IN YEARS 8-10?
Agriculture is not formally taught in years 8-10, but pupils’ awareness of the sector is developed by the year 9 pupils visiting Balmoral show along with the yr11 agriculture classes. Year 10 pupils are given the opportunity to attend careers advice opportunities specific to the sector and in recent years have participated in the “Field to Fork” program developed and offered by the Young Farmers Club of Ulster. All pupils are encouraged to participate and enter into some of the KS3 and KS4 Home Industries section of Armagh County Agricultural Show and Country Festival.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN AT GCSE LEVEL?
Years 11 and 12 have the opportunity to study either for a GCSE in Agriculture and Land Use, or a BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Agriculture.
In year 11 the GCSE pupils examine soils, crops and habitats, with topics of study include soil composition, plant biology, crop production and biodiversity in a range of local habitats.
Year 12 of the GCSE introduces animal husbandry and animal production, including breeding and reproduction, health and welfare, nutrition and food processing. Year 12 pupils also examine the issues of health and safety, farm economics and the use of technology to support farmers.
Over the two years of the BTEC course, units of study and assignments on the introduction of farm animal production, introduction of animal and plant husbandry and conservation and improvement of British Habitats are completed.
OTHER INFORMATION
September 2016 saw the opening of a large polytunnel teaching resource, which will be used by both GCSE and BTEC classes.