Place: On farms throughout the UK and Ireland. Some farms are closer together and so can provide joint learning opportunities. There are two such regional groupings - 'Severn Valley Group' in western and central England and the 'South Group' in southern and eastern England.
Training language: English
Dates: Apprentices can join any time during the year
Duration: Two years
Cost: No charge - apprentices are expected to work in exchange for board, lodging and training
Target groups and admission requirements: Open to anyone over 21 who is interested in training to be a biodynamic farmer, gardener or forester
Training objectives: To gain basic agricultural / horticultural skills, understand the principle and practice of biodynamic techniques and create a foundation for developing an independent understanding of the earth, life and human beings from a spiritual perspective.
Training program: Apprentices learn while working alongside an experienced farmer or gardener. Their practical tuition is supported by weekly study sessions and tutorials.
The BDAA runs two week-long block courses each year for all the apprentices on the scheme. Over the two years these cover Soils; Plant and plant husbandry; Animals and their care and Astronomy respectively.
In parts of the country where several farms are in the vicinity of one another, regional three day seminars are also held. There are usually six such seminars per year. These provide opportunities for gaining deeper insights into the background and practice of biodynamics. In more isolated situations other creative ways are found to provide these opportunities by drawing on local experts etc.
Every apprentice undertakes a project of his or her own choice which is presented at the graduation. Every successful apprentice receives a certificate from the Biodynamic Agricultural Association.
Contact details:
Biodynamic Agricultural Association, Painswick Inn Project
Gloucester Street, Stroud GL5 1HF Great Britain
Tel: 0044 (0)1453 759501
Email: office@biodynamic.org.uk