This course provides practical training and assessment in the safe and competent operation of a tractor. Learners can follow the option most appropriate to their equipment and existing level of experience.

Learner’s Own Equipment – 1 day – £354.60

Training takes place face-to-face on the learner’s farm using their own tractor. Learners will develop practical skills in safe tractor operation, including pre-use checks, controls and safety features, starting and stopping safely, manoeuvring, observation and hazard awareness, and safe working practices.

Provided Equipment – Initial Assessment/Test – £216

Equipment is provided and the learner’s existing experience and practical competence are assessed. The provider will contact the learner beforehand to discuss their experience. During the practical assessment, the learner will demonstrate safe preparation and operation of the tractor and may be asked questions or to demonstrate specific tasks. The assessor will determine whether the learner can complete the assessment or requires further training.

Provided Equipment – Full Training Course – £936

Where the initial assessment identifies that further training is required, the learner can undertake the full 3-day face-to-face course using provided equipment. Training develops the knowledge and practical skills required to operate a tractor safely and competently, with assessment of the learner’s ability to apply safe working practices.

Learners must be registered with the current Farming Connect programme, have access to the Skills Hub using their RPW Online One Login, and have completed their Personal Development Plan (PDP).

Learners must complete the mandatory Health and Safety – Risk Management in Forestry and Farming e-learning module before attending the course.

No previous tractor qualification is required. The learner’s existing experience and practical competence will be considered when determining the appropriate training and assessment route.

Learner’s Own Equipment

Lantra Certificate of Training – Tractor Driving.

Provided Equipment – Assessment/Full Training Route

NPORS Operator Card – Tractor.

Learners may wish to progress to further tractor and agricultural machinery training, including specialist tractor courses covering front end loaders, arm mounted cutting equipment and driving on slopes. They may also progress to other machinery courses such as Rough Terrain Telescopic Lift Truck, Counter Balance Forklift truck, Sit-Astride ATV's including Loads and Trailed Equipment, or Sit-in ATV Conventional Steered.

Learners should wear suitable clothing, sturdy footwear and the appropriate PPE for practical tractor training and assessment. Learners following the own-equipment route will need access to a suitable tractor in safe working condition. Any specific PPE, identification, equipment or course materials required will be confirmed before the course.