Ceredigion County Council has initiated a significant educational transformation by hosting an open day at Llettytwppa Farm, a newly acquired site in Lampeter. This farm, purchased with a £1.85 million loan from the Welsh Government, will be developed into an agricultural college aimed at bolstering the local economy and meeting the needs of the agricultural sector.
The council’s ambitious project reflects a commitment to enhance agricultural education in the region. By offering specialized courses in areas such as agricultural mechanics, sustainable farming, and hedge laying, Llettytwppa Farm is set to serve as a pivotal training ground for both young people and lifelong learners. This initiative is part of a broader vision to ensure that the local workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in their communities.
On December 3, 2023, a stakeholder engagement evening was conducted, bringing together representatives from various sectors, including farming unions, local businesses, and educational institutions. Cllr Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, highlighted the importance of collaboration with the agricultural sector to develop relevant and practical learning opportunities. He stated, “This event has shown how important it is to work with the agricultural sector to shape learning opportunities that are relevant and practical.”
The council aims for Llettytwppa Farm to be more than just an educational facility. It aspires to create a nurturing environment where learners can gain hands-on experiences directly applicable to their future careers. On December 15 and 18, 2023, approximately 160 pupils from local schools participated in introductory sessions to experience the offerings at Llettytwppa Farm. This initiative targets students in Years 10 to 13 who are currently pursuing agricultural or vocational courses, or who have expressed interest in such fields.
Prys Lewis, the newly appointed Manager of Llettytwppa Farm, emphasized the future potential of the college. He shared, “Looking to the future, our aim and vision is to offer a wide range of opportunities for young people and lifelong learners in Ceredigion to learn traditional skills as well as new skills.” Lewis expects strong interest in the courses, underscoring the farm’s role as a vital educational resource.
Ceredigion Training will implement two levels of agricultural apprenticeships at Llettytwppa Farm. The Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship is tailored for beginners, providing foundational knowledge in areas such as crop production and livestock care over a span of approximately 24 months. Following this, learners can progress to the Level 3 Apprenticeship, which is designed for those with prior experience or a Level 2 qualification. This advanced program aims to equip participants with the skills necessary for roles such as farm manager or agricultural technician.
Courses are slated to commence in September 2026, with Ceredigion Training’s website stating that the curriculum will be developed in response to industry needs. By focusing on practical skills and tailored learning experiences, the council aims to build a robust educational framework that will benefit the agricultural sector and support the local economy.
The establishment of Llettytwppa Farm as an agricultural college represents a promising step towards fostering a sustainable agricultural community in Ceredigion, aligning educational opportunities with the demands of the industry.
