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Sheep
Sheep 100 Hours Certificate Course
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Learn About Sheep
Sheep farming course online. Home Study – Distance Learning – Sheep.
Equip yourself with a comprehensive knowledge of sheep farming.
In this Sheep Farming course, you will learn a broad range of topics, including: Breeds, Selection and Breeding, Nutrition, Diseases, General Management of a Commercial Flock, Care of the Lamb, Wool, and the Marketing of Sheep and Sheep Products.
Sensible and knowledgeable sheep farming practices will ensure better expansion of your flock and help in the efficiency of managing your enterprise.
This sheep online course has been designed to accommodate the expert, as well as, help the novice sheep farmer get started.
The course will also benefit you in developing your ability to objectively examine and make the right sheep management choices.
Sheep are a vital factor in any pastoral country as they provide valuable commodities: wool, meat, milk, skins and manure.
Sheep farming has many advantages. Sheep do not need complicated shelters and labour costs in the rearing of sheep are much lower compared to other forms of farm animals.
The initial start-up costs are economical and the sheep’s reproductive cycle is a relatively short period.
In addition to eating grass as their main source of food, they also eat several forms of plants, making them a low-cost animal to keep.
Sheep manure contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which helps to fertilise soil richness, resulting in crop development and better yields.
A thorough and practical online course.
Additional Resources
Consider joining the: National Sheep Association (NSA)
https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/about/
We recommend membership of the National Sheep Association.
Membership fees are affordable. The NSA is a very good source of data and information concerning all things to do with sheep.
Other Sheep Associations
There are many other Sheep Associations in the UK. We have listed a few here.
The British Sheep Dairying Association
https://www.sheepdairying.com/sheep-dairying
British Texel AssociationFormed in 1974 the British Texel Sheep Society now maintains the largest registry of pedigree Texel sheep anywhere in the world.
https://texel.uk/
British Sheep Breeders Societies and Associations
Stackyard
http://www.stackyard.com/pedigree/html/uksheep.html
Ther are many more sheep socieites and associations listed on the web.
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Lesson Structure: Sheep BAG210
There are 8 lessons:
1. Introduction; Terminology and Breeds
- Factors affecting the choice of breed
- Product and Market
- Rearing and Management System
- Overview of Sheep Breeds
- Sheep Terminology
2. Selection and Breeding
- Growth Rate
- Reproductive Efficiency
- Carcass quality
- Wool traits
- Culling old ewes
- Selecting replacement ewes
- Selecting replacement rams
- Commercial Sheep Production
- Choosing a lambing time
- Autumn lambing
- Spring lambing
- Accelerated lambing
- Managing ewes prior to mating
- Using hormones to control reproduction
- Joining methods
- Anatomy of ewe reproductive organs
- Anatomy of ram reproductive organs
- Ultrasound
- Signs of lambing
3. Nutrition of Sheep
- Anatomy
- Condition scoring
- When to condition score
- Factors affecting feed requirements
- Feeding rams
- Feeding ewes
- Feeding lambs and fatteners
- Nutrition and wool production
4. Diseases of Sheep
- Viral and rickettsial diseases
- Bacterial diseases
- Metabolic diseases
- Protozoal diseases
- Poisoning
- Vaccination
- The medicine chest
- Giving injections
- Disease prevention through sound management
5. General Management of a Commercial Flock
- Handling and treatment facilities
- Drenching
- Injecting
- Hoof Trimming
- Shearing
- Tail docking
- Castration
- Blowfly strike
6. Care of the Lamb
- Abnormal Presentation
- Presentation: One front leg back
- Presentation: Both front legs back
- Presentation: Hind legs first
- Presentation: Head back, both front feet forward
- Presentation: Breech or tail first
- Presentation: Twin lambs presented together
- Post lambing care
- Drenching
- Rearing orphan lambs
- Lambing records
- Managing the fattening lamb
- Feeding
- Lamb marking
7. Wool
- Characteristics of wool
- Types of wool
- Wool classing
- Wool processing
- Factors influencing the estimation of yield
- Piece Picking
- Wool Scouring
- Carding
8. The Marketing of Sheep and Sheep Products
- Wool sales
- Sale by private treaty
- The auction system
- Wool futures
- Industry regulatory and marketing authorities
- Lamb and mutton marketing: Paddock sale, Saleyard auction, Over-the-hook sale
- Electronic Marketing, Live Sheep exports, Forward price contracts
- Factors affecting the value of lamb or mutton: Carcass weight, Skin value, Payment basis (hot or cold weight) etc
Please Note: Each lesson culminates in an assignment, marked by your tutor and returned with tailored feedback including suggestions, comments, and extra reading if necessary.
Learning Goals
Learning Goals: Sheep BAG210
- Select appropriate breeds of sheep for different purposes
- Select sheep to be used for different production purposes and explain the techniques used in sheep commercial breeding
- Explain the procedures used in managing the health of sheep (Nutrition)
- Explain common diseases affecting sheep and the procedures used in managing the health of sheep
- Explain the techniques used in the management of a commercial flock of sheep
- To describe practices related to caring for lambs
- Explain the processes involved in handling wool after shearing
- Explain the techniques used in managing the marketing of sheep and sheep products
Practical (Set Tasks)
Practicals: Set Tasks that you will do in the course in addition to the lessons:
- Collect information about different sheep breeds which are being farmed or could be successfully farmed in your region.
- Compare the different characteristics of sheep breeds in terms of appearance, hardiness, commercial potential.
- Select breeds for three different purposes, including wool production and meat production, in your locality.
- Inspect at least two sheep, ideally, from separate flocks, and determine their age by looking in their mouths.
- Define the following different sheep breeding terms: Oestrus, Gestation, Weaning, Flushing, Wet ewes, Teasers.
- Design a “breeding record form” which includes all necessary factors.
- List criteria to be used for selecting sheep for different purposes, including for replacement and for slaughter.
- Develop a standard form, which considers both meat and wool, to use for judging sheep.
- Talk to at least two experienced sheep farmers about “condition scoring” of sheep.
- Compare the differences in food required by different types of sheep, including: rams; breeding ewes at different stages of pregnancy; sheep being fattened for meat.
- Prepare a collection of ten pasture plant species from at least two different sheep properties and comment on the suitability of the pasture for sheep.
- Distinguish between the different categories of sheep health problems, including: viral, bacterial, metabolic, protozoal, poisoning, parasites.
- Describe how to perform different pest and disease control tasks, including: drenching, injecting, hoof trimming, docking.
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
KNOWING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF WOOL
There are over one hundred recognised sheep breeds in the world today and one of the main ways of distinguishing between them is by the wool they produce.
The Karakul, for example, has very coarse wool with a beautiful colour that is best suited for blankets and carpets.
At the other end of the scale is Merino whose super fine wool can be manufactured into the most delicate yet durable fabrics.
Pure wool breeds of sheep should have no hair in their fleece. Where a cross has been made between a wool and non-wool sheep, there will inevitably be some hair in the fleece of the offspring.
Hair is undesirable in a fleece because it lacks the elasticity of wool and cannot be spun. Generally, some hair will be found within the fleece of lower grade individuals especially at the hindquarters.
One type of hair which is particularly undesirable is kemp which is a hair fibre that does not grow continually but detaches itself from the skin at 15 cm lengths.
It has a “staring” white colour that does not absorb dyes and will not bind with wool during spinning or weaving.
THE UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF WOOL
Over recent years, the rapid expansion of the man-made fibres has brought a wide range of new “wools” into our lives. Many clothes incorporate nylon, terylene, orlon and courtelle.
Such fibres are wonderful technological achievements and exhibit such characteristics as being drip-dry, uniform, shrink-proof and relatively cheap.
Wool, however, has certain essential and unique characteristics that no artificial fibre has yet been unable to copy.
These characteristics are becoming increasingly appreciated:
- Serrations: wool fibre is made up of a series of scale-like cells which catch or hook onto adjoining fibres. This gives wool its strong yarn-making characteristics and protects it from chemical action (such as detergents).
- Crimp: the wave or crimp of wool is plainly visible and varies between breeds and the degree of fineness of the wool. Generally, the more crimp per unit length the finer the wool.
The crimp of the wool is usually described by the term spinning count which is a numbering system derived in England. Lack of food can reduce the crimp which decreases the tensile strength or soundness of the wool.
- Elasticity: wool can return to its normal length after being stretched which makes for firmness and strength in knitted and manufactured fabrics.
- Length: wool grows continually and is usually shorn from sheep once a year. The length of growth over a year depends on the sheep itself, the breed, level of feeding as well as the part of the sheep from which the wool was shorn.
The longer the wool the more valuable it is to the manufacturer because the fibres can be controlled more easily in the processing and more twist can be asserted resulting in a stronger and more desirable yarn.
- Uniformity: uniformity in fibre length is also very important as it gives better mechanical control and results in good fine yarns for the production of high class, light material.
- Non-conductivity of heat: man has used wool for centuries to insulate himself against the cold. Wool can be made into garments, blankets and rugs.
- Non – flammability: wool does not burn readily and this is a valuable characteristic which makes it of particular value. For example, wool is used in suits for pilots, racing drivers and fire-fighters as well as for carpets.
- Hygroscopic properties: wool has the ability to absorb moisture to up to 33% of its dry weight. It also is able to give off moisture. These properties mean that the wearer of a woollen article can still feel warm and dry in damp weather.
- Durability: woollen textiles are very durable for their mass. Generally, the coarser or thicker the wool fibres the stronger the wool will be. However, coarse fibres are usually limited to being used in rugs and carpets.
- Softness: this is one of the most important selling points of woollen products.
- Colour: The ability to absorb and retain dye is an important characteristic of wool.
- Felting properties: No other textile fibres can compare with wool in its ability to felt or entangle to form a compact fabric. Fine wools show more readiness to felt than strong wools.
CLASSES OF WOOL
There are five hundred and six different recognised classes of wool in the world trade but such detail is obviously not necessary for this course! Generally, wools can be divided into two broad classes:
- Carpet wools – These are obtained from sheep breeds with coarse wool of variable length such as Romney Marsh, Turkidale & Lincoln. These wools are used for blankets, tweeds and carpets.
- Clothing wools – These are obtained from Merinos (fine wool) and other wool breeds (stronger wool) and their main characteristic is that they have all fibres of similar length and similar diameter. Breeds used for the production of clothing wools include: Polwarth and the Corriedale.
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit. - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERAL
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q: When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q: I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q: Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A: The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q: What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A: Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q: When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q: Where Do I Take My Exams?
A: UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q: Exam Pass Marks?
A: Module – pass 50%. Commendation 70%.
Qualification: 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A: You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,