Careers in Agriculture

Sixteen Year 9 students with an interest in agriculture attended the Careers in Agriculture Day at RIST on Monday July 22. All students rotated through four activities, getting hands-on experience to better understand each operation. 

These included tasks in the areas of shearing as seen in the photograph, and wool handling and livestock husbandry. Some of this husbandry was done using simulators, as shown in the photograph below, where a cattle yard simulator is being operated. Similarly, to gain some understanding of cropping and tractor work, students also had use of a cropping simulator, also shown below. 

The students’ scientific skills were extended in the agri technology and agronomy activities, which are now becoming a more significant part of farming. The day culminated with a sheep autopsy performed by a local vet, so students could appreciate aspects of sheep biology. In all, students gained much from the day and greatly enjoyed the experiences.

At Year 10,11 and 12, students can include the Certificate II in Agriculture as part of their studies. This can be done as either a vocational course at SW TAFE Hamilton, or as a School-based apprenticeship through RIST and with an employer.

Ms Anne Gough

VET/VM