Wesley McFarland who completed an NVQ Level 3 and Units of an HNC in Agriculture writes:-

“I farm between Omagh and Newtownstewart, in a picturesque area overlooking the Strule river. Having lived and worked all my life on the family farm, I always wanted to come home to farm after I finished school. However after speaking to the school careers adviser in Omagh Academy I considered the option of going to learn a bit more about agriculture before returning home to farm full time. I attended one of the open evenings at Enniskillen Campus and after getting a tour around the Campus and hearing a bit about the NVQ Level 3 in Agriculture, I decided to apply for that course.   

The course suited me because it involved attending Enniskillen Campus on a day per week basis, whilst spending the remainder of the week working with my father on the home dairy farm. This enabled me to put into practise what I had learned in class.

After completing the NVQ Level 3 I then decided to progress my studies at Greenmount Campus. Again I attended on a part time basis and completed units of the Higher National Certificate (HNC).

We covered a range of units including animal health, livestock production and breeding and nutrition, all of which I am able to put into practice on the home farm.  I also enjoyed the social aspect of College life and have made some good friends from all over the country.

The latest project on the farm was a below ground slurry tank which was completed under the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme in 2008. A new shed was erected over the tank and accommodation with feeding space provided for 100 dairy cows. This project was planned to supplement the existing accommodation thus improving cow comfort and welfare.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Enniskillen and Greenmount Campuses. The courses I completed provided me with the knowledge and practical skills required for managing a successful farming business.    

Wesley McFarland pictured on his farm in the Strule valley between Omagh and Newtownstewart.

Wesley McFarland pictured beside the new dairy cow accommodation