Lincolnshire is a huge agricultural county - with a reputation for food and farming, it produces 30% of the nation’s vegetables and 18% of the poultry, as well as housing more than 75% of the UK’s fish processing industry.
In recent years, there has been a greater drive for innovation, sustainability and efficiency in farming. As the industry becomes more technical, the role of AI, automation, engineering and technology in the sector is growing and there is an increased demand for skilled workers with STEM skills to support this.
At the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology, we support students to access the technical expertise they need for specialised pathways into agriculture. Across our education partners, STEM qualifications in agri-tech help to support strong farming careers in Lincolnshire and beyond.
Gaining industry knowledge
STEM qualifications can prepare students to navigate the changing landscape of modern agriculture, with a key focus on digital processes and productivity.
One of our education partners, Riseholme College, is a specialist land-based education provider, which serves the regional and national demand for agricultural skills. Focusing on areas such as transforming food production, farming practices for animal welfare, and conservation and land management, the college offers a diverse range of courses that reflect current industry demands.
Combining STEM knowledge with practical experience, our courses focus on providing students with hands-on experience in technical roles, with learning environments replicating modern agricultural workspaces.
Accessing specialised equipment
When studying with our education partners, students have access to the latest technologies and equipment to support professional excellence. For example, Riseholme College boasts a £1.2 million Centre for Agri-Food Technology and has a state-of-the-art campus, equipped with precision agriculture tools including a KRM Fertiliser spreader, Ares P2713 Seed Drill, drones and VR equipment.
Ben Comins, an FdSc Agriculture student, said: “Technology is vital to the farming industry in today’s modern world to improve yields, efficiency and farming businesses in general.
“I have enjoyed everything about learning at the Institute of Technology. Precision agriculture is going to be essential to the future of agriculture and for my career.”
Our technical resources help to bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students actionable insights that can stand out to employers. By mastering precision tools with industry-standard training, students can gain confidence for the workplace and the developing operations of farm businesses.
Finding tailored courses
There are both college and degree-level courses available in agriculture, such as a Level 3 or Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Agriculture, as well as more specific courses like foundation degrees in Farm Business Management.
For those interested in animals, there are also options like a BSc (Hons) in Equine Health and Nutrition, or FdSc in Animal Management and Behaviour - providing insights into managing animal health and understanding care.
As agriculture becomes more specialised, choosing a tailored course is increasingly valuable. Whether students are interested in livestock, crop production, sustainability, agri-tech or rural business management, technical courses can support their long-term goals and expertise.
Annie Wilson, who is studying a BSc (Hons) in Precision Agriculture, said: “We study advanced agronomy, integrated farm management and rural strategic business management.
“It opens more doors with the technology being new. It’s good going forward for the future because you have a better understanding and it gives you that step up in the industry.”
Our agricultural courses give students exposure to the latest developments across the sector, helping them to stay competitive in an industry that continues to evolve through innovation, environmental policy and changing consumer demands.
If you’re considering studying a course in agriculture, get in touch or visit our education partners’ websites to find out more.
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