FULL TIME STUDY COURSE GUIDE 2026 ENTRY
Immersive Education for a Changing World
PLUMPTON COLLEGE - WHERE YOU BELONG
WELCOME TO PLUMPTON
I’m thrilled that you are considering joining Plumpton next year. We have a fantastic college community who are committed to supporting you every step of the way. We’ll help you find the right course and build your skills to an advanced level, so you can feel confident about your future.
2026 marks a special year to join us –during our centenary year – where we’ll be celebrating our journey of educating students over the last 100 years. 2026 isn’t just a chance to reflect, but to look forward to the next 100 years of education. Today, the land based sector sits at the crux of three of the biggest global challenges: food security, environmental sustainability and health. As the leader of land and environment education and training for the South East, we are perfectly placed to lead the way in addressing these critical issues.
Demand for qualified and highly skilled graduates is higher than ever, meaning there are fantastic opportunities worldwide for you to pursue - which is why we encourage our students to stay with us, progress to degree level, and gain the industry-ready skills that employers are actively seeking.
By joining Plumpton College, you’ll not only build a successful career, but also play a vital role in tackling the challenges that shape our world.
I look forward to meeting you at our next Open Event or Taster Day very soon.
Jeremy Kerswell Principal
PASSIONATE & EXPERIENCED LECTURERS - many of whom have worked in the industry
98% of students found careers advice received helpful
(2025 student survey)
EXTENSIVE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME – providing opportunities to make friends, volunteer, keep fit and learn new skills
Holistic support for your studies, tutorials & work experience
WHY PLUMPTON?
Expanded species collection in our updated Animal Education Centre
93% of students feel their lessons are helping them to develop skills needed for industry
(2025 student survey)
800
HECTARES
(almost the size of the City of Brighton!) campus set in the South Downs National Park
An active student voice via the Student Union and representatives – ensuring your views are heard and events celebrated, such as Raising and Giving (RAG) Day, Plumpton Pride, WellFest and the annual Summer Ball
VETERINARY STUDIES CENTRE with hydrotherapy pool and water treadmill
EXPERT CAREER GUIDANCE –supporting your progression into employment, an apprenticeship, or higher education
PLUMPTON?
92% STUDENTS
employed after graduation from college (as of June 2024)
DEDICATED
Student Support & Wellbeing teams to help you academically, personally, and professionally
£30M INVESTMENT into sector-leading specialist facilities over the last 10 years
OUR COURSE YOUR CAREER
We believe there is at place at Plumpton for every student wanting to enter the land based sector. It’s simply a matter of finding the right course at the right level of study to allow you to be the best you can be. By starting in the right place, you can progress from Foundation and Entry Level up to Level 3, and onwards to degree level in an extensive range of subjects.
FOUNDATION
Foundation Learning and Entry Level – essential skills
• Foundation Learning and Entry Level 3 courses are designed to build essential skills and knowledge to support further study such as numeracy, literacy and digital skills, in addition to personal and professional development.
• You may enter this course following school or in preparation for studying your chosen subject area.
• Entry requirements can be found on course pages of our website and vary depending on the course.
• Typically, these courses are studied over 1-2 years.
ENTRY LEVEL 3
NCFE LEVEL 1 AWARD
OUTREACH PROGRAMME
LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2
Your foundations
• You will be introduced to your chosen subject area, building solid foundations and confidence to progress to Level 2 study.
• You may join college via our Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ 14-16 Programme, or via our Foundation Learning courses.
• Entry requirements can be found on course pages of our website and vary depending on the course.
• Typically, our Level 1 courses are studied over 1 year.
INTRODUCTORY DIPLOMA
ENTRY L3
ELECTIVELY HOME EDUCATED & SCHOOL LINK
INTRODUCTORY CERTIFICATE
Building your knowledge & experience
• You will develop your understanding of your chosen subject area and focus on practical skills and applied knowledge, in preparation for Level 3 study.
• It is likely that work experience will form part of your study, gaining industry relevant skills.
• You will likely need to have completed a Level 1 course, or gained 2 or more GCSE’splease check our website for specific course requirements.
• Typically, our Level 2 courses are studied over 1 year.
TECHNICAL DIPLOMA
TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE
APPRENTICESHIP
LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4+
Progressing your theorical & technical skills & deepening your understanding
• You will advance your skills and understand your chosen subject area in-depth, acquiring specialist knowledge and practicing independent learning in preparation for higher level study.
• You will spend more time in industry on work experience.
• You will likely have completed the Level 2 course, and/or gained 4 or more GCSE’s at a higher grade, including your English & maths. Please check our website for specific course requirements.
• Typically, our Level 3 courses are studied over 2-3 years.
Developing specialist expertise & professional competence
• Having gained your Level 3 qualification, you will be mastering your applied skills and specialist knowledge, and perhaps specialising into areas of interest or expertise with professional development courses and degree courses. These could include foundation years, full bachelor’s degrees and postgraduate study.
• You are likely to have worked within industry, or have relevant industry experience.
• You will likely have completed a Level 3 course, or equivalent and hold a minimum number of GCSE’s including your English and maths. Please check our website for specific course requirements.
• Typically, our higher education courses are studied over 2+ years.
FOUNDATION DEGREE
MASTER’S DEGREE
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
APPRENTICESHIP
NEW FOR 2026 ENTRY
Fabrication and Welding Technologies
Ornamental and Environmental Horticulture and Landscaping
FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY:
T LEVELS AT PLUMPTON COLLEGE
T Levels are two-year technical qualifications designed for students aged 16–19 who want to gain practical skills, industry knowledge, and a pathway into skilled employment or higher education. They are equivalent to three A-levels and developed in collaboration with employers to ensure they meet the needs of industry.
Completing a T Level prepares you for higher level apprenticeships or employment in your chosen field, as well as progression to degree level study.
Why choose a T Level?
• Structured learning: 80% of your time is spent in the classroom, building technical knowledge and practical skills, while 20% is dedicated to industry placements, giving you practical experience in the workplace.
• Industry-relevant skills: Courses are designed with employers, ensuring you gain the expertise that businesses are actively looking for.
• Pathways for progression: T Levels prepare you for skilled careers, apprenticeships, or progression to higher education.
What can I study?
• Agriculture, Land Management and Production - Livestock Production
• Animal Care and Management (Animal Management and Science)
• Animal Care and Management (Animal Management and Behaviour)
• Fabrication and Welding Technologies
• Ornamental and Environmental Horticulture and Landscaping
APPRENTICESHIPS
As one of the country’s leading land, environment and foodproduction apprenticeship providers - rated Outstanding by Ofsted - our apprenticeship programmes give you the best of both worlds: earning a wage while learning and building indemand skills.
AS AN APPRENTICE, YOU WILL:
• Train for your career – develop practical, job-specific skills that prepare you for success in your chosen industry.
• Gain real-world experience –work on genuine projects and tasks alongside experienced professionals.
• Earn while you learn – receive a salary and enjoy full employee benefits, including holiday pay and sick leave.
• Dedicate time to learning – spend at least 20% of your working hours in structured training or study to support your development.
• Track your progress – take part in regular reviews and complete an End Point Assessment to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
FIND YOUR MATCH WITH THE APPRENTICESHIP TALENT BANK
We have a dedicated support service to match you with employers looking for an apprentice.
INDUSTRIES YOU CAN JOIN AS AN APPRENTICE
• Agriculture & Animal Care
• Forestry, Arboriculture & Horticulture
• Food & Drink Production
• Land & Environment
FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY
INCLUSIVE LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
Our Inclusive Learning & Development team provides personalised help for students with additional needs, giving you the confidence, independence, and guidance to succeed - both at college and beyond.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME
Our Outreach Programme is designed to help every learner build the skills, confidence, and independence needed for gradual reintroduction to college life. Whether you’re preparing for employment, further study, or simply discovering your strengths, we offer a personalised and nurturing journey that helps you achieve your goals.
Find out more on our website.
ENGLISH & MATHS
Achieving your GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above is essential to continue studying your chosen course. Our experienced tutors provide personalised support, small group lessons, and practical learning activities, giving you the skills and confidence to progress to further study, apprenticeships, or employment. Lessons are integrated into your timetable alongside your chosen course. Explore more on our website.
DID YOU KNOW?
We offer English & maths
Functional Skills courses for adults starting in September and January for FREE, subject to eligibility. Find out more on our website.
YOUR APPLICATION JOURNEY
This represents a typical student application process to join us at Plumpton College; however this can differ depending on individual needs, course requirements and personal circumstances.
EXPLORE
What’s your passion, interest or drive?
Explore your options and come to one of our Year 10 Taster Days to find out more.
VISIT
Book onto one of our Open Events to meet teaching staff, current students, ask your questions and get a feel for our campus and community.
TALK WITH US
In most cases, you’ll be invited for interview to understand your experiences, suitability and motivations for joining Plumpton –bring your questions too!
INVESTIGATE
Do your research –what school grades or qualifications do you need to get onto your chosen course? What experiences will support your application?
APPLY
Submit your application as soon as possible to make sure you’ve got the best chance of joining us in September.
PREPARE
Once you have received your offer, you’ll be invited to a Welcome Day – make sure to secure your spot and review all of the helpful information in the lead up to starting with us. Order your branded clothing and necessary equipment, book your bus tickets, apply for any financial support, and reserve your room with us if you’re planning to live on campus.
WELCOME!
It’s time to start your next chapter – there’ll be lots going on to support your transition into college life and beyond.
OFFER
You’ll receive an offer to study with us, which may or may not be dependent on your GCSE results. Once you’ve got this, there’s no need to wait – accept as early as possible to prepare for September.
RESULTS DAY
Once you’ve received your GCSE results, let our teams know so we can confirm your place at Plumpton. Don’t worry, if the exams didn’t go as you expected, there is always another option or opportunity to get you back on track. Just contact our team to discuss your offer and other options.
EXPLORE OUR COURSES
Subject / Department Courses
Adventure Education
Agriculture
• Sport
• Adventure Education
14 -16 prog
Level 2
Level 3
Agricultural Engineering
• Agriculture
• Agriculture, Land Management and Production - Livestock Production
• Crop Technician
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Sustainable Land Management
• Engineering Skills
• Agricultural Engineering
14 -16 prog
Level 1, 2 & 3
T Level
Apprenticeship
Degree courses
• Outdoor Activity Instructor
• Expedition Leader
• Outdoor Learning Facilitator
• Environmental Studies Educator
• Teacher of Adventure Education
• Farm Worker
• Farm Manager
• Agricultural Engineer
• Agronomist
• Animal Nutritionist
• Soil Scientist
• Plant Geneticist
• Agricultural Consultant
• Animal Health Inspector
14 -16 prog
Level 2
Level 3
Animal Studies
• Animal Care
• Animal Management
• Animal Care & Management (Animal Management & Behaviour) (Animal Management & Science)
• Animal Care & Welfare Assistant
• Applied Animal Behaviour & Welfare
• Applied Animal Behaviour & Conservation
• Applied Zoology & Animal Conservation
• Small Animal Hydrotherapy
14 -16 prog
Level 1
Level 2
T Level
Apprenticeship
Degree courses
• Agricultural Engineer
• Agricultural Service Engineer
• Field Service Engineer
• Maintenance Engineer
• Workshop Manager
• Lecturer in Agricultural Engineering
• Design Engineer
• R&D Engineer
• Animal Care Worker
• Zoo Keeper
• Wildlife Rehabilitator
• Kennel or Cattery Manager
• Pet Shop Manager
• Animal Welfare Officer
• Veterinary Practice Assistant
• Animal Nutritionist
• Animal Behaviourist
• Conservation Officer
• Rescue Centre Manager
• Gamekeeper
Blacksmithing & Metalwork
• Blacksmithing, Metalwork & Jewellery
• Blacksmithing & Metalwork
• Jewellery Making
• Welding
• Creative Practice:
Art Design & Communication –Jewellery Pathway
• Fabrication & Welding
Dog Grooming
• Principles of Dog Grooming
• Dog Grooming Assistants
• Dog Grooming
Environmental Studies & Conservation
• Environmental Studies & Conservation
• Sustainable Land Management
• Rural Land & Business Management
14 -16 prog
Level 2
Level 3 T Level
• Blacksmith
• Heritage Blacksmith
• Industrial Blacksmith
• Farrier
• Metal Fabricator
• Welder
• Ornamental Ironworker
• Tool Smith
• Metalwork Workshop Manager
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 2
Level 3
Degree courses
• Dog Groomer
• Dog Grooming Assistant
Equine Management
• Horse Care
• Equine Management
• Veterinary Physiotherapy
14 -16 prog
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Degree courses
• Ecologist
• Environmental Consultant
• Nature Conservation Officer
• Countryside Ranger
• Biodiversity Officer
• Environmental Scientist
• Head of Conservation
• Environmental Health Practitioner
• Groom
• Riding Instructor
• Yard Manager
• Stud Manager
• Equine Veterinary Surgeon
• Equine Veterinary Nurse
• Equine Dental Technician
• Equine Physiotherapist
• Equine Welfare Officer
• Equine Nutritionist
Fisheries & Aquatic Science
• Fisheries & Aquatic Science
Floristry • Floristry
Level 2
Level 3
• Fisheries Officer
• Fish Farm Manager
• Aquatic Ecologist
• Fisheries Scientist
• Marine Science Officer
• Marine Biologist
14 -16 prog
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
• Florist
• Florist Manager
• Wedding Florist
• Event Florist
• Wholesale Florist
Food Skills
• Food Skills
• Baker
• Butcher
• Food & Drink Process Operator
• Advanced Butcher
Forestry & Arboriculture
Foundation Learning
• Forestry
• Forestry & Arboriculture
• Arborist
• Arboriculturist
14 -16 prog
Level 2
Apprenticeship
Level 3
Apprenticeship
14 -16 prog
Level 1
Level 2 & Level 2
Apprenticeship
Level 3 & Level 3
Apprenticeship
• Personal Growth
• Preparing for Progression
• Supported Internship
Horticulture
• Horticulture
• Hard Landscaping
• Ornamental & Environmental Horticulture & Landscaping
• Golf Greenkeeper
• Sports Turf Operative
• Horticulture Operative or Landscape
Construction Operative
• Advanced Sports Turf Technician
• Crop Technician
• Horticulture Supervisor
• Sustainable Horticulture Management
Inclusive Learning & Development
• Outreach Programme
Entry Level 3
Level 1 NCFE
Occupational
Studies
18+ only
14 -16 prog
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
T Level
Level 2
Apprenticeship
Level 3
Apprenticeship
Degree courses
• Butcher
• Baker
• Chef
• Restaurant Manager
• Food Production Worker
• Food Scientist
• Food Marketing & Retail Worker or Manager
• Tree Surgeon
• Arboricultural Consultant
• Tree Climber
• Forest Manager
• Forest Ranger
• Woodland Manager
• Tree Preservation Officer
• Urban Forestry Officer
• Tree Risk Assessor
• Level 1 courses
• Horticultural Worker
• Nursery Manager
• Grounds Maintenance Operative
• Garden Centre Manager
• Commercial Grower
• Plant Breeder
• Tree Care Specialist
• Parks & Gardens Manager
Foundation Learning
Entry Level
Level 1
• Fisheries Officer
• Fish Farm Manager
• Aquatic Ecologist
• Fisheries Scientist
• Marine Science Officer
• Marine Biologist
Motor Vehicle
• Vehicle Maintenance
• Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Principles
• Motor Vehicle
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
• Vehicle Technician
• Master Technician
• MOT Tester
• Diagnostic Technician
• Automotive Engineer
DISCOVER PLUMPTON
1. Plumpton College
2. Brighton 3. London
4. Crawley
5. Eastbourne
6. Worthing
7. East Grinstead
8. Uckfield
9. Haywards Heath
10. Burgess Hill
11. Royal Tunbridge Wells
12. Gatwick Airport
13. South Downs National Park
14. Stanmer Campus (One Garden Brighton)
CAMPUS SPOTLIGHT: PLUMPTON COLLEGE
800 hectare estate
Commercial working farm with:
• 270+ dairy cows
• 500+ ewe sheep
• 50+ Sussex Beef cattle
• 120 sow pigs
State of the art Veterinary Studies Centre
New species of animals for 2025 and upgraded animal enclosures
Stabling for 40 horses, mechanical horse with indoor & outdoor schools
Two fishery stock ponds
29 forges
Accommodation for 200+ students
AgriFood Centre featuring fullyequipped training kitchen
Wine Studies Centre
New tractor fleet (in partnership with Crawfords)
£1.2m pig unit
State-of-the art robotic milkers and machinery to support dairy unit in collaboration with Lely
Immersive Learning Suite Specialist butchery training facilities
CAMPUS SPOTLIGHT: STANMER CAMPUS
One Garden Brighton is a beautifully restored walled garden at Stanmer Park, on the edge of Brighton. It’s managed and run by Plumpton College as a horticultural centre of excellence, combining education and training, community, and enterprise. Relaunched to the public in 2021 after a major restoration, One Garden Brighton acts as both a visitor attraction and an unparalleled immersive learning environment.
• Teaching and training spaces – for Plumpton College students studying horticulture, floristry, dog grooming and more.
• Part-time training, leisure courses and workshops – for adults pursuing their passions, including RHS qualifications.
• Living gardens – designed by awardwinning landscape architect Dominic Cole, and maintained by staff and students as part of their learning.
• Cafe – serving local and fresh produce.
• Shop – offering fresh produce and goods from local growers and makers.
• Dog grooming studio – professional and commercial dog grooming services from Plumpton College.
LIFE AT PLUMPTON
EAT & DRINK
From quick snacks to healthy lunches, hearty breakfasts and barista coffee – we have options to suit everyone.
Got your own?
Want to bring your own food and drink? We have lots of places to heat up food and drink across campus.
Dining Room
Serves freshly prepared meals for all students, every day, in a welcoming environment, with a salad bar, hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and more.
Graze Café
Located in our AgriFood Centre, barista coffee and to-go options are available to senior students and our adult learners.
The Hundred Offers to-go lunch options and a variety of snacks, available to all students.
The Potting Shed
Run by our Supported Internship students and open to all, the café offers barista coffees, and to-go food and drink.
GET INVOLVED
Make the most of your time at Plumptonjoin clubs, go on trips, take part in events, and get involved in committees and programmes.
Explore a few examples* of what you might experience when you join us:
CLUBS
• Chess
• Crocheting
• Film
• Football
• Indoor Sports
SOCIAL SPACES
Campus life isn’t just about studying - it’s about connecting, relaxing, and finding your place to belong. Our campus offers several social spaces where students can unwind, collaborate, and spend time together. Relax in our common rooms, catch up with friends in The Hundred, or enjoy good weather outside of our Dining Room.
For our 14-16 students, there is a dedicated space to use - The Hub: newly updated for 2025.
From lively meeting points to quieter corners, these spaces make it easy to share experiences, make new friends, and feel part of a vibrant, supportive community.
• E-Sports
• Table Tennis
• Photography and more…
COMMITTEES & PROGRAMMES
• Sustainability Committee
• EDI Committee
• Student Ambassador Programme and more…
TRIPS
• Ski Trip
• City Breaks
• Theatres & Shows
• Cinema
STUDENT UNION
Run for roles such as
• President
• Vice President
• Student Governor
• Sporting Events
• Theme Parks
• Paintballing and more…
• Entertainment Officer
• Further and Higher Education Officers
• Student Union Team Member
*subject to demand, change and availability
PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
We have fantastic teams who are onhand to help you discover what you can achieve here at college and beyond. From enrichment sessions, to careers workshops, to coaching and voluntary activity, we encourage all our students to participate.
Get involved and learn about topics such as personal finance, improving and managing your health, preparing for life after college, and more.
GIVING BACK
Our college community plays a pivotal role in supporting the wider local and international community through fundraising activities, voluntary projects and charity work. You’ll have lots of opportunities to contribute throughout your time here.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Plumpton College Charitable Foundation offers vital support to students, helping them continue their education and graduate into industry.
SUPPORTING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING
We understand that there will be times when you need extra support to navigate life’s challenges. Our teams are here to help you through and thrive at college.
Our dedicated, full-time team are available to support your mental health, general health and wellbeing, online safety, personal relationships and more.
RESOURCES INCLUDE:
• Referral to professional counselling services delivered by As You Are
• Free access to Wisdom, the wellbeing app
• Open access to Otis, our resident wellbeing dog
• Membership to Action Your Potential
• Dedicated wellbeing Whatsapp line for Plumpton students
GETTING TO US
Whilst we are a rural campus, getting to college couldn’t be easier, whether by car, bus, or train, we’ve got you covered.
BY BUS
Operated by Zeelo, the most popular means of getting to us is by our extensive bus service – used solely by Plumpton College students. Visit our website to find out more about routes, pricing and financial support.
BY CAR
We have plenty of free car parking available on campus, included dedicated accessible parking spaces and EV charging stations.
BY BIKE
There are designated parking spaces available for those who choose to get to us by motorbike and several bike racks for secure storage.
BY TRAIN
The closest local train stations are:
• Lewes
• Hassocks
• Plumpton
• Wivelsfield
Did you know – you can hop on our bus service from any local train station to complete your journey to college.
Live in Brighton or Worthing? You may be eligible for free rail travel with a UNIZONE season ticket.
Scan the QR code below for more information.
ACCOMMODATION
Be one of our 200 students living on campus with us and secure your home from home.
We have dedicated full board accommodation, rated Ofsted ‘Outstanding’, to suit a variety of needs and budgets.
Each residential student enjoys:
• Full board – breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, 7 days a week
• Free wifi and all utility bills covered
• 24hr onsite staff support
• Daily cleaning service
• Transport to local supermarkets and health services
RESIDENTIAL LIFE
Living in our student accommodation is a fantastic way to meet new people and fully immerse yourself in life at the College. Our residential students create a vibrant and welcoming community, taking part in socials and events throughout the year.
PACKAGES & BURSARIES
Scan for our latest packages, information and costs.
Find out if you’re eligible for bursary support towards accommodation.
FEES, FUNDING & BURSARIES
TUITION FEES
Aged 14 - 16
Your school will cover your tuition fees to study with us. Please check our website for funding information if you are home educated.
Aged 16 - 18
If you are between 16-18 when you join us in September, your tuition will be fully funded.
Aged 19+
Tuition fees vary dependant on your course. You will be required to cover materials and assessment fees.
Speak to our teams today, and visit our website for the latest information.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Support and Bursaries
We offer lots of help and support to cover costs of studying at Plumpton –check what’s available and if you’re eligible.
Preparation
Ready for college? Start thinking about some of the items that will be needed for your chosen course:
• Laptop or iPad
• Course specific equipment
• Specialist clothing or PPE
• Stationery, notepads, paper
Check our equipment and kit lists for your course
FIND OUT MORE
Bursaries
Help towards costs of studying
Equipment and kit list
PLAN YOUR VISIT START YOUR JOURNEY
Taster Days
Secure your spot on one of our Year 10 Taster Days to explore your chosen course in more detail.
Open Events
Explore our campus, meet our teaching staff and ask all of your questions.
DISCLAIMER: This course guide is designed to help you explore whether Plumpton College is the right choice for you. We’ve taken great care to ensure the information provided is accurate and up to date, and we aim to deliver our courses as described. However, course content and delivery may occasionally change. For the latest details, please visit our website or get in touch with our team, who will be happy to assist you. This booklet was printed with 100% sustainable materials.
PLUMPTON COLLEGE - WHERE YOU BELONG
