If you're looking for a career that combines science, sustainability, and the great outdoors, then the Level 3 Crop Technician Apprenticeship at Hadlow College could be the perfect fit.
This hands-on, 24-month apprenticeship is ideal for individuals with a passion for nature, plants, and the environment.
Whether you're a school leaver, a career changer, or someone looking to work in a more practical, outdoor setting, this course opens the door to a rewarding future in horticulture.
What Does a Crop Technician Do?
As a Crop Technician, you'll play a key role in ensuring healthy, high-quality crop production from start to finish.
This includes preparing soil or growing media, planting seeds, monitoring growth, managing pests and diseases, harvesting, and maintaining post-harvest quality. You’ll work in a variety of environments, from open fields using high-tech machinery to climate-controlled greenhouses for more delicate or containerised crops.
You’ll also engage with the latest agricultural technology, including automation and precision farming tools, as well as sustainability-focused practices that are shaping the future of food production.
What Will You Learn?
You’ll receive expert tuition alongside practical workplace experience at our beautiful Hadlow campus.
Over the duration of the apprenticeship you will cover:
- Crop identification and growth stages
- Soil and substrate management
- Machinery operation and maintenance
- Pest and disease control
- Record keeping and data analysis
- Health and safety protocols
As part of the course you will also take your PA1 and PA6 Spraying License qualifications and a Level 3 Emergency First Aid qualification.
The final End Point Assessment (EPA), completed with Lantra, includes three components: an online multiple-choice test, a practical assessment, and a professional discussion, all designed to showcase your competence and readiness for the workplace.
Entry Requirements
You’ll need a GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in both Maths and English, or Functional Skills at the same level, to apply for the apprenticeship.
Why Choose Hadlow College?
We are Kent’s only specialist rural and land-based college - you’ll be taught by experienced professionals and gain skills in real-world settings that prepare you for long-term career success.
You will have access to our excellent facilities, including our groundbreaking Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence @ Hadlow College, the UK’s first centre of excellence in greenhouse growing, and a ‘concept orchard and vineyard’ that showcases the latest technology, including automated AI management systems, innovative crop diversity, cleaner storage and robotic fruit picking.
You will also be based in the beautiful surroundings of our large managed estate with over 265 acres of land.
Where Can This Take You?
This apprenticeship is a gateway into a variety of exciting careers. Graduates often progress into roles such as:
- Farm Supervisor
- Orchard Technician
- Glasshouse Technician
- Crop Monitor
- Spraying Operative
- Commercial Horticulturalist
There are also opportunities for further study or progression into more senior management or technical roles.
Full details of where a Crop Technician qualification could take you can be found on the Lantra website.
Ready to Apply?
If you’re motivated, practical, and want a meaningful career that supports sustainability and food production, the Level 3 Crop Technician Apprenticeship at Hadlow College is an excellent starting point.
Visit the Apprenticeships section of the Hadlow College website to find out more and to take the first steps towards growing your future.