CONTENTS Page General Information the National Training Syllabus

CONTENTS Page

General Information

Introduction 2 FACTS Scheme - Objectives 4 Composition of the FACTS Management Committee 5 Terminology and definitions relating to the scheme 6 The Certificate of Competence in Fertiliser and Nutrient Management Advice for Field Sales and Advisory Staff 8 Your Questions Answered 9 Examination Structure 12 FACTS Pre-Training 13

The National Training Syllabus - FACTS Agriculture Modules % TOTAL TIME

1. The soil in relation to plant nutrition 15% 16 2. Organic nutrient sources 15% 18

3. The nature and properties of fertilisers 5% 20 4. Crop nutrients in plants and the factors influencing 15% 21 the amount of fertiliser required. 5. Use of fertilisers on the main crop groups in the UK 15% 23 6. The transport, storage and handling of fertilisers 10% 24

7. Application of fertilisers 5% 25 8. Code of Good Agricultural Practice and legal and 20% 26 other requirements to protect the environment Sample multi-choice questions for the FACTS Examination 27 Sample Scenario question for the FACTS Examination 28 Reference materials 30 Useful websites and publications 31 The BASIS Diploma in Agronomy 33 BASIS / FACTS Approved Trainers 36

FACTS SYLLABUS & INFORMATION

INTRODUCTION

FACTS is an independent non-statutory certification Scheme for advisers in plant nutrient management. It was established in 1993 following discussions with the trade associations connected with the industry and BASIS® Registration Ltd. At the present time there is no legal requirement for advisers and sellers to be certificated; however it was considered that setting up such a scheme was the responsible action to take in light of the environmental pressures and increasing technical requirements. The Scheme and initiative are fully supported by Defra and the Environment Agency. The FACTS Scheme is administered on behalf of the industry by BASIS® Registration Ltd which has administered a similar scheme for the pesticides industry since 1978. FACTS is controlled by a Management Committee that is chaired by an independent chairman with representatives of trade associations from the industry, including representatives from (AIC) Agricultural Industries Confederation. ADAS, the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC), the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Environment Agency (EA), the National Farmers Union (NFU), National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC), LANDEX, the Potash Development Association (PDA) and independent trainers.

WHISTLE BLOWING POLICY

BASIS Registration Ltd is committed to the highest standards of openness and accountability. Therefore, we expect employees, candidates and others who work with BASIS who have serious concerns about any aspect of our work voice those concerns.

To this effect BASIS has a whistle Blowing Policy. This procedure is designed to allow concerns of a public interest kind within BASIS to be raised, investigated and where appropriate, acted upon. Complaints may be any member of staff, candidates or those contracted to provide services to BASIS.

To view the full Whistle Blowing Policy go to: http://www.basis-reg.co.uk/documents/BASIS-whistle-blowing-policy.pdf

DYSLEXIA POLICY

BASIS Registration Ltd allows students diagnosed with Dyslexia to request special examination arrangements. Proof of dyslexia is required a minimum of 4 weeks before the exam date so that BASIS can provide special examination arrangements if required.

For a full copy of our Dyslexia Policy please go to: https://basis-reg.co.uk/documents/Dyslexia-Policy.pdf

COMPLAINTS POLICY

For a full copy of our Complaints Policy please go to: https://www.basis-reg.co.uk/documents/Complaints-Procedures.pdf

The FACTS Annual Scheme, (including the FACTS Information Service) and membership of the BASIS® Professional Register, which FACTS-registered advisers can join, have been devised in response to several pressures: Most people who take an interest in agriculture appreciate that if soil fertility is to be maintained then nutrients taken off in the crop or lost to air or water must be replaced. However, many of these people are also concerned about the actual or potential environmental impact that these losses can cause and they look to those involved to do what they can to minimise them. This is one of the pressures to which those advising farmers on nutrient management and fertiliser use must respond and was a driving force behind the establishment of the FACTS scheme. It allows farmers to identify those competent to advise them on all aspects of nutrient management including the requirements of the law. There is also political pressure to respond to environmental problems either by regulation such as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZ’s) or by other restrictive policies. These may be unwelcome but if action towards environmental improvement is not forthcoming, proposals for the more stringent measures will increase. Voluntary measures, such as FACTS, encourage the adoption of best nutrient practices and offer those involved in agriculture the opportunity to demonstrate that they are able to manage environmental pressures while helping their farmer clients optimise inputs. FACTS is based on the principles of Integrated Farm Management (IFM) promoted by LEAF – (Linking Environment And Farming) - and training is compatible with Integrated Crop Management training courses. There is also a need for advisers to continue their personal development. Life-long learning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) are modern themes and for good reason. CPD is important to advisers for a number of good reasons and can help an individual keep abreast of: . Changes in the economics of agriculture . Climate change both short term and in the long term . Changes to equipment and products available . New research findings and subsequent recommendations . Changes in the public perception of agriculture and its effect on the environment and food quality It is increasingly down to individuals rather than employers to manage their careers. This means advisers must keep up-to-date and be able to offer evidence to their clients that they can be relied upon to have the necessary competences. Gaining a FACTS qualification is only the start. In order to maintain FACTS Qualified Adviser status, it needs to be followed by proof of ongoing professional development via CPD points to meet requirements of the BASIS Professional Register. In the years ahead we can increasingly expect assurance schemes and crop production protocols to require advisers to demonstrate their continuing professional development.

FACTS SCHEME - OBJECTIVES

The overall aim of the Scheme is to ensure a high standard of proficiency of all those giving fertiliser and plant nutritional advice to end users, having due regard for the protection of the environment. To achieve these objectives the Management Committee will: a) Develop and promote a certification scheme for those selling fertilisers to farmers and/or advising on the use of nutrients. b) Establish and maintain a National Training Syllabus for those giving fertiliser and plant nutritional advice; c) Identify and liaise with recognised training centres and those providing in-house training which provide instruction on the National Training syllabus;

d) Establish and monitor appropriate examination provision for trainees, whether trained by BASIS®- Approved Trainers, by in-house training or by home-study;

e) Approve a level of competence which candidates for certification should reach;

f) Maintain a Register of those certificated as competent to advise on fertiliser and plant nutrition products;

g) Gradually raise the general level of competence of advice given by the fertiliser and plant nutrition industry and others and keep under continuous review the standards of the Scheme, including the status of exemption holders; h) Liaise closely with UK Government and the EU in order to have the registration scheme recognised and accepted by both UK and other EU Governments.

COMPOSITION OF THE FACTS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Independent Chairman Nominated by trade associations in Conjunction with BASIS and DEFRA

. 2 Nominated Members from the AIC Fertiliser Manufacturers' Committee

. 2 Nominated Members from the AIC Fertiliser Distributors Committee

. 1 Nominated Member from ADAS

. 1 Nominated Member from the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC)

. 1 Nominated Member from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

. 1 Nominated Member from the Environment Agency (EA)

. 1 Nominated Member from Land Based Colleges Aspiring to Excellence (LANDEX)

. 1 Nominated Member from the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC)

. 1 Nominated Member from the National Farmers' Union (NFU)

. 1 Nominated Member from the Potash Development Association (PDA)

. 1 representative of independent trainers

. The Managing Director (or senior management representative) of BASIS® will be eligible to attend the meetings.

* In addition an officer from the AIC and the FACTS Information Service attend the Committee by invitation.

FACTS TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS RELATING TO THE FACTS SCHEME

TERM DEFINITION FACTS Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme. An independent non- statutory certification scheme for professionals providing advice and information on the management of plant nutrients and fertiliser materials.

FACTS Qualified Member of the BASIS Professional Register who has passed the FACTS exam and Adviser has fulfilled requirements for ongoing training. Benefits include access to the FACTS Information Service (FIS).

FACTS Subscriber An annual subscription service available to professionals who have passed the FACTS exam or hold a FACTS exemption certificate. Benefits: membership card, and access to the FACTS Information Service (FIS).

FACTS Certificate / A certificate of basic competence in fertiliser and plant nutrient advice for Field, Exemption Sales and Advisory Staff. Experienced advisers working with fertilisers for at least 5 years prior to 1993 were awarded the certificate on the basis of their accumulated knowledge.

FACTS Training The national standard on which all candidates will be assessed whether training Syllabus takes place at recognised training centres, in-house or elsewhere.

FACTS Exam Passed Recognised non-statutory qualification (multiple choice exam plus written recommendation exercise paper and viva) for those providing plant nutrient advice.

FACTS Turf and Specific qualification for advisers on amenity turf – other specific qualifications other specialised include FACTS Horticulture, FACTS Agriculture and FACTS Veg. FACTS qualifications

Regional Training Approved training centres that have agreed to run training courses based on the Centres FACTS Training Syllabus. Approved Trainer details can be found at the rear of this booklet.

FACTS Information FACTS Information Service provided to FACTS Qualified Advisers and FACTS Service (FIS) Subscribers. Comprises four newsletters per year and access to free and impartial plant nutrient information via telephone/email helplines and an online library.

FACTS Workshops/ Events organised by the FACTS Advisory Committee. Open to all FACTS Members Seminars with a small attendance fee.

FACTS Advisory Committee responsible for determining FACTS policy and maintaining the financial Committee viability of the Scheme.

Field Sales and Those employed by manufacturers, distributors, independent consultants, agents

Advisory Staff (FSAS) and Government bodies who are involved in selling and/or giving advice on fertilisers and nutrient management to end users.

Office and Depot Staff employed by manufacturers, distributors or agents who are office based and Staff are permitted to take counter orders and telephone orders from end-users, provided no technical advice is given and the services of a current FACTS Qualified Adviser are available. This may be operated by "administrative means”.

Administrative Un-qualified staff should have ready access to a qualified member of staff by means means of telephone, email or fax. It is not necessary that there is a current FACTS Qualified Adviser available on the premises at all times. A list of current FACTS Qualified Advisers should be available at the depot giving telephone numbers and a contact point.

Direct Supervision Direct supervision of un-certificated staff should always take place except in the case of field staff training for certification where supervision, after initial training, may be exercised remotely on a daily basis. Such trainees would normally sit an examination for certification within three years of starting the job. Trainee staff will have received induction training by the company and will have been accompanied by a qualified member of staff on several farm/horticultural visits. All subsequent unaccompanied visits for sales and advice should be monitored by a qualified member of staff until such time as the trainee obtains the FACTS qualification.

THE BASIS ® DIPLOMA IN AGRONOMY

Both the BASIS® qualification and the FACTS qualification are now a requirement for the BASIS® Diploma.

Details of the BASIS® Diploma can be found on page 33, at the end of this booklet.

THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE IN FERTILISER AND PLANT NUTRITION ADVICE FOR FIELD SALES AND ADVISORY STAFF

Courses are offered by the BASIS® Approved Trainers listed in this book. These centres are prepared to run courses based on the national training syllabus enabling candidates to prepare themselves for the FACTS Certificate of Competence.

The course is based on at least five days of training, including examination. The national syllabus gives candidates an outline of the training requirements.

All advisers who give advice on fertiliser and crop nutrient use are strongly recommended to obtain a Certificate of Competence within three years of entering the industry, during which time they should be working under the supervision of a qualified member of staff.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

DO I NEED TO TAKE A TRAINING COURSE IN ORDER TO SIT THE FACTS EXAMINATION? Not necessarily, if you have enough technical knowledge and in-field experience already. However, candidates should ensure that they have been trained satisfactorily, either in-house or externally, and have had sufficient supervised field experience prior to entering for the examination. Following the introduction of the new NVZ regulations candidates should be able to understand and explain the new rules and will be examined in both written and verbal examination. They should have read and understood NVZ Guidance and Section 1 of the Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) (Principles of nutrient management and fertiliser use) (England/Wales), or equivalent SRUC Technical Notes (Scotland) before presenting themselves for the course and exam. It is important that, where necessary, the candidate should prepare in this way for the course - the course alone is unlikely to raise a candidate from minimal knowledge of nutrient use and relevant regulations to success in the exam. If they do not know these regulations they will not pass.

WHAT IS THE STANDARD OF THE COURSE? The overall aim of the course is that at the end of training, coupled with previous practical experience, candidates will have a basic understanding of fertilisers and plant nutrition to enable them to give advice to farmers and growers which is technically, economically and environmentally sound. The emphasis will be on practical knowledge applicable when advising farmers and growers.

WHAT FORM DO THE TRAINING COURSES TAKE? Normally a one-week residential block (at least 5 days) with an assessment on completion of the course. Day release or short blocks may be offered, depending on regional requirements.

WHERE ARE TRAINING COURSES HELD? At selected training centres within the United Kingdom and also at other venues, both in the UK and abroad, organised by local training groups; a list of current Approved Trainers at the end of this document.

HOW DO I APPLY TO TAKE A TRAINING COURSE? Contact the Approved Trainer of your choice. Complete a training course application form and send it to them.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE CORRESPONDENCE COURSES OR EVENING CLASSES? Not currently.

WHEN AND WHERE ARE EXAMINATIONS HELD? They are currently held at each of the centres listed at the end of this book. Examinations are held when there are sufficient numbers to make them viable.

HOW DO I APPLY TO SIT THE EXAMINATION? Complete an examination application form and return it to the Approved Trainer of your choice. You will be notified when an examination is to take place. (Those attending a training course will automatically be entered for the examination and so do not need to apply separately.)

IF I FAIL THE EXAMINATION, CAN I RE-SIT? Yes you can re-sit the exam; however, BASIS examinations are accredited on the Higher Education qualifications framework. One consequence of this is that we need to ensure procedures are in place to improve candidates’ chances of success in subsequent examinations following a previous failure. Where candidates have been examined unsuccessfully on two occasions, they will be required to retrain before attempting the exam for a third time. Candidates and trainers will be required to complete a form to confirm that they have retrained, particularly covering areas that were identified as ‘areas of weakness’ at previous exams. The form should be presented to the exam Chairman at the third exam attempt. Failure to confirm that retraining has taken place will result in a refusal to conduct the viva examination and subsequent ‘no result’ for the exam. Please help us to help you by asking your training provider to evaluate your training needs and undertake the training required to ensure you can pass the exam. Those candidates wishing to go forward for the BASIS Diploma and later the Harper Adams University Diploma in Agronomy with Environmental Management should be aware that only four attempts at any examination will be permitted if that course is included as a qualification module for the diploma(s).

WHAT DOES THE EXAMINATION ENTAIL? Candidates will be required to sit an exam in 2 parts: . 60 multi-choice questions (no books / notes allowed) . A scenario question for which candidates may use their text books and notes (i.e. open book exam) The questions will be based on the national syllabus. This will be followed by a viva panel, involving two people from industry (fertilisers and plant nutrition) and chaired by a representative of BASIS acting on behalf of the FACTS Management Committee. The purpose of this is to enable the panel to make a full assessment of the candidate as a competent adviser in the fertiliser industry; the decision of the panel will be final .

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL TRAINING SYLLABUS? The standard and content of training which needs to be attained to enable trainees to prepare for the FACTS Certificate.

IF I APPLY FOR A JOB WITHIN THE FERTILISER INDUSTRY DO I HAVE TO HOLD THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE OR HAVE EXEMPTION FROM IT? At present the Scheme is non-statutory. However, if you have not previously been employed in the fertiliser industry it is recommended that you become qualified within three years of entering the industry. During that time you are strongly advised to work under the supervision of a current FACTS Qualified Adviser.

WHAT IS MEANT BY "WORKING UNDER SUPERVISION"? All responsible companies will require new personnel to have an initial period of training, accompanied by a qualified member of their staff. There will come a time when the company will have to allow the representative to work without supervision. Until such time that he / she becomes qualified, all sales and advice given by the new representative should be monitored by a qualified person.

IS IT A REQUIREMENT IN LAW TO HOLD A CERTIFICATE? The Scheme is at present non-statutory. However, the EU is looking at standards of competence relating to fertiliser advice and therefore the industry is setting a standard prior to any legislation, in order to meet public concerns that the industry is attaining the highest professional standards and to guide any legislative moves.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY EXAMINATION RESULTS? We aim to issue results and feedback within 20 working day of the date of examination. Please note results will not be given over the telephone.

FACTS EXAMINATION STRUCTURE

The examination is comprised of 3 elements:

. Written – 60 multi-choice questions (no books / notes allowed) . Completion of a scenario question - incorporating a nutrient planning exercise – open book exam (text books and notes allowed) . Viva – involving the chairman and two people from the fertiliser industry. Elements of both the multi-choice and scenario papers may be included in the viva discussions.

EXAMINATION TIMING

08.15 am Coffee / meet Independent BASIS appointed Chairman

08.30 - 08.45 am Examination begins and consists of:

60 multi-choice questions 75 mins

10.00 am Short break 10 mins

10.10 am 1 scenario question (open book) 45 mins

11.00 am Viva Examinations 15-20 mins per person

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the FACTS office, c/o BASIS® Registration Ltd, St Monica’s House, 39 Windmill Lane, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 1EY Tel: 01335 343945 / 340854 (Fax: 01335 346488) e-mail [email protected] web site: www.basis-reg.co.uk

PRE-FACTS TRAINING

Before taking a FACTS training course, some background reading will be extremely helpful for the more experienced advisers and essential for those with little on-farm experience. It is highly unlikely that a four or five day course alone will raise knowledge to the level needed for success in the exam. Before starting the course, you must :

• be able to obtain a recommendation for nitrogen, phosphate and potash for winter wheat using the Nutrient Management Guide (RB209)

• have a basic knowledge of NVZ rules

• have read section 1 (Principles of nutrient management and fertiliser use) of the Nutrient Management Guide

The preparatory reading material outlined below will cover the main issues in every module of the syllabus. The documents should be used as required to improve knowledge before formal FACTS training. A key document is the AHDB Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) that can be downloaded from the AHDB web site www.ahdb.org.uk/rb209 . Although developed for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, this document covers the principles of crop nutrition and some sections will be helpful in Scotland. Additional information for Scotland is in Prevention of Environmental Pollution from Agricultural Activity (PEPFAA) that can be downloaded from www.scotland.gov.uk and in Technical Notes that can be downloaded from www.sruc.ac.uk. Most of these are available without charge. MODULE 1. THE SOIL IN RELATION TO PLANT NUTRIENTS 1. Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) Section 1 or, in Scotland, SRUC Technical Notes 2. thinksoils published by the Environment Agency www.ahdb.org.uk/projects/documents/ThinkSoils.pdf MODULE 2. ORGANIC NUTRIENT SOURCES 1. Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) Section 2 or, in Scotland, Prevention of Environmental Pollution from Agricultural Activity (PEPFAA) Section 4 www.gov.scot/policies/agriculture-and-the- environment/pepfaa/ 2. Managing Livestock Manures (series of four booklets by ADAS/IGER/SRI www.nutrientmanagement.org/library/manure-and-slurry/ MODULE 3. THE NATURE AND PROPERTIES OF FERTILISERS There is information at the web sites of the major manufacturers: eg Yara, CF Fertilisers, Origin and in the fertiliser publications at the AIC site www.agindustries.org.uk . Also: 1. Understanding nitrogen and its use in agriculture 2. Understanding potash and its use in agriculture 3. Understanding phosphorus and its use in agriculture These documents are at the Fertilizers Europe web site www.fertilizerseurope.com/ (select Publications under Media then scroll through the Archive section).

MODULE 4. CROP NUTRIENTS IN PLANTS AND THE FACTORS INFLUENCING NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANNING 1. Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) Section 1 or, in Scotland, SRUC Technical Notes MODULE 5. USE OF FERTILISERS ON THE MAIN CROP GROUPS IN THE UK 1. Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) Sections 3, 4, 5 and 6 or, for Scotland, relevant SRUC Technical Notes MODULE 6. THE TRANSPORT, HANDLING AND STORAGE OF FERTILISERS 1. Farm Storage and Transport Requirements for AN-based Fertilisers (from the AIC web site www.agindustries.org.uk , in the Fertiliser section, select Publications, Health and Safety ) 2. Security of fertilisers on farms. Northern Ireland version of the ‘Five Point Plan’ available at www.gov.uk/government/publications/fertiliser MODULE 7. APPLICATION OF FERTILISERS 1. Fertiliser Spreaders Manual (from the AIC web site www.agindustries.org.uk , in the Fertiliser section, select Publications for farmers and advisers ) MODULE 8. CODE OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE AND LEGAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT England/Wales 1. Protecting our Water, Soil and Air www.gov.uk/government/publications/protecting-our-water- soil-and-air 2. Guidance for Farmers in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones www.gov.uk/nitrate-vulnerable-zones 3. Farming rules for water (England only) www.gov.uk/government/publications/farming-rules-for- water-in-england Scotland 1. Prevention of Environmental Pollution from Agricultural Activity (PEPFAA) www.gov.scot/policies/agriculture-and-the-environment/pepfaa/

2. Guidelines for Farmers in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones https://www.gov.scot/policies/agriculture-and- the-environment/nvz/

Northern Ireland 1. Code of Good Agricultural Practice for Northern Ireland www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/code- good-agricultural-practice-cogap 2. Nutrient Action Programme Regulations 2019-2022 www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/nutrient-action- programme-regulations-2019-2022

THE NATIONAL SYLLABUS FACTS AGRICULTURE The overall aim of the course is that at the end of training, coupled with previous practical experience, candidates will have a basic understanding of fertilisers and nutrient management to enable them to give advice to farmers and growers which is technically, economically and environmentally sound. The emphasis will be on practical knowledge applicable when advising farmers and growers. Following the introduction of the new NVZ regulations candidates should be able to understand and explain the new rules and will be examined in both written and verbal examination. They should have read and understood NVZ Guidance Section 1 of the Nutrient Management Guide RB209 (Principles of nutrient management and fertiliser use) or the relevant SRUC Technical Notes before presenting themselves for the course and exam. It is important that, where necessary, the candidate should prepare in this way for the course - the course alone is unlikely to raise a candidate from minimal knowledge of nutrient use and relevant regulations to success in the exam. If they do not know these regulations they will not pass. In the syllabus, each of the eight sections is divided into: Aims Competence Performance Criteria Essential Knowledge and Skills At the examination candidates will need to satisfy the examiners on all eight sections of the syllabus.

MODULE 1 - SOIL MANAGEMENT IN RELATION TO PLANT NUTRITION

Aim To understand the basis of soil fertility in supporting plant growth, the ways that nutrients are held in the soil and the management of the inter-relationships between soil, water and air.

1.1 Competence Candidates should appreciate the principles of crop nutrient requirements using a knowledge of the biological, physical and chemical conditions of the soil.

1.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to: . Assess the soil properties, growing conditions and yield potential associated with a particular site and determine that they are suitable for purpose, taking into account the state of the soil and the surrounding environment. . Identify soil properties that affect the supply of macro and micro nutrients to the growing crop. . Appreciate the role of applied nutrients in supplementing soil supply and/or replacing crop removal. . Describe how major nutrients (N, P, K), minor nutrients (Mg, S) occur in the soil and how they are lost from it. . Recognise situations which may lead to the loss of nutrients from a soil, identify any environmental as well as economic implications and recommend actions to remedy any

concerns. . Understand the main requirements of a Soil Management Plan to include erosion and run-off risk factors and understand “Cross Compliance” requirements.

1.3 Essential Knowledge & Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Define soil type, texture and structure. . Make an assessment of soil drainage conditions and rooting depth. . Take representative soil and tissue samples and interpret the results. . Assess crop N requirement based on soil type, rainfall and previous crop and, in England, explain the SNS Index. . Explain the interpretation of P, K and Mg soil indices (England) or status (Scotland) and assessment of crop nutrient requirement and nutrient removal rates. . Understand the term cation exchange capacity (CEC) and give examples of nutrients retained. . Show understanding of the role of soil organic matter in the supply and retention of nutrients. . State optimum soil pH for mineral/peaty soils and arable/grass crops and show understanding of the impact of pH on the availability of nutrients and crop growth. . Plan a liming policy for a rotation. . Explain how neutralising value (NV) can be used to compare liming materials. 15% of total time

MODULE 2 - ORGANIC NUTRIENT SOURCES

Aim To understand the role and value of organic nutrient sources.

2.1 Competence Candidates must be able to describe the different types of organic nutrient sources, their storage, handling and spreading properties and understand the issues involved in estimating their nutrient contribution.

2.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to: . Appreciate the characteristics, analysis, and the short and longer term availability of nutrients contained in a) farm yard manures b) poultry manures c) sewage sludge/cake d) liquid manures/slurries e) composted organic materials f) anaerobic digestate g) green manure crops and other organic materials

. Appreciate factors influencing the nutrient value and plant availability of the above organic materials. . Understand how to prepare a manure management plan and to calculate manure/slurry storage requirements. . Demonstrate an awareness of spreading techniques and pollution hazards arising from utilising organic materials.

. Demonstrate an awareness of the legal requirements for spreading non-farm waste on land.

2.3 Essential Knowledge & Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Explain the methods/devices for measuring the nutrient content of organic nutrient sources. . Interpret an analytical report for an organic nutrient source and explain the difference between ‘total’, ‘readily available’ nitrogen. . Describe the different methods for applying organic nutrient sources and explain their relative benefits. . Describe the pathways through which nutrients may be lost to water or the air during storage and before/after application of organic nutrient sources.

. Demonstrate competence in advising on rates and timing of applications in relation to soil type and prevailing patterns of rainfall distribution. . Explain the possible problems of potentially toxic elements (PTE’s) in the application of human/animal waste products. . Demonstrate awareness of the relevant statutory requirements and codes of practice in relation to pollution, including: Defra Protecting Our Water, Soil and Air (England/Wales), PEPFAA (Scotland), The Safe Sludge Matrix, Renewable Fertiliser Matrix, Sewage sludge in agriculture: code of practice for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Biosolids Assurance Scheme, Environmental Permitting Regulations (land spreading of non-livestock wastes in England), Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Scotland), Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations and Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) Regulations.

15% of total time

MODULE 3 - NATURE AND PROPERTIES OF FERTILISERS

Aim To understand the properties of manufactured fertilisers that have agronomic significance.

3.1 Competence Candidates should be able to advise customers on the most appropriate fertiliser type for their specific requirements.

3.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to: . Describe the relevant chemical and physical properties of fertilisers including 1. particle size and size distribution 2. particle strength 3. dust 4. lumps and caking 5. nutrient content 6. nutrient sources 7. nutrient solubility by different tests

. Describe the difference between w/w and w/v concentrations in a liquid fertiliser and use specific gravity to convert between them. . Understand the measurement units of nutrient declarations and ratios. . Calculate unit costs and undertake cost comparison of different products.

3.3 Essential Knowledge & Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Appreciate the range of products and formulations. . Appreciate the agronomic implications of the different forms of fertilisers. . Demonstrate awareness of fertiliser legislation (UK Fertilisers Regulations and EC Regulation 2003/2003) and correct labelling (see Module 6). . Understand the agronomic implications of fertiliser declarations on bags and labels (the relevance of total and soluble nutrient contents).

5% of total time

MODULE 4 - CROP NUTRIENTS IN PLANTS AND THE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE AMOUNT OF FERTILISER REQUIRED

Aim To understand the principles of crop nutrient management.

4.1 Competence Candidates must be able to estimate the nutrient requirements of a particular crop and appraise a range of nutrient sources, prior to constructing nutrient and fertiliser plans and to make fertiliser recommendations to meet crop requirements and have due regard to the environment.

4.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to: . Explain the role of all plant nutrients. . Calculate typical rates of uptake and removal of nutrients by different crops. . Describe typical symptoms of deficiencies of major and micronutrients. . Explain the use of soil analysis as a basis for nutrient recommendations. . Describe typical nutrient response curves and the effect of the "Law of Diminishing Returns". . Describe how a response curve can be used to calculate an approximate break-even rate for a major nutrient, e.g. nitrogen in cereals and explain how changes in crop and fertiliser prices can affect the nutrient recommendations. . Distinguish between optimum economic and maximum yield. . Assess and appraise the effects of crop rotation, farming practices and crop quality specifications on nutrient availability and requirement. . Interpret situations suitable for "maintenance applications" in maintaining soil nutrient reserves and ensuring effective crop response. . Understand the main units in which advice is given and convert between metric and imperial.

4.3 Essential Knowledge and Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Explain keywords: locking up, immobilisation, mineralisation, nitrification, de-nitrification, leaching, volatilisation, uptake. . Demonstrate an understanding of how to approach diagnosis of nutrient deficiencies, e.g. take soil and plant samples, use pH kits. . Demonstrate interpretation of soil and tissue analysis results and their limitations, prior to drawing up recommendations. Describe the visual symptoms of nutrient deficiencies . Convert between metric and imperial units and, where liquids are used, between weight/weight and weight/volume declaration. . Demonstrate an awareness of market requirements in certain crops and the effect nutrients

may have on them: a) grain protein for bread quality b) grain N for malting barley quality c) non-protein N for sugar beet quality d) DM content of processing potatoes

15% of total time

MODULE 5 - USE OF FERTILISERS ON THE MAIN CROP GROUPS IN THE UK

Aim To be able to give advice on the nutritional requirements of specific crops based upon a sound understanding of crop requirement, and environmental considerations.

Candidates will be expected to be fully conversant with the main arable crops, grassland and forage crops which will be covered in training. Candidates who specialise in other crop types (eg. fruit) should ensure they are familiar with the relevant section in RB209 to supplement training.

5.1 Competence Candidates should be able to apply the principles in Sections 1 and 4 to advise an appropriate nutrient recommendation plan for a given crop.

5.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to evaluate a given field situation in making appropriate objective recommendations for the application of fertiliser and lime for a particular crop’s needs.

5.3 Essential Knowledge and Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Understand the influence of local climatic and geographic factors on fertiliser quantity and timing for a given crop. . Demonstrate an interpretation of a soil analysis report and application of the information to a given crop fertiliser regime. . Show how the influence of previous cropping impacts on the fertiliser recommendation for a following crop. . Understand the principles of canopy management for decisions on nitrogen use. . Understand the role of organic nutrient sources in crop nutrition and identification of the extent to which a given crop fertiliser regime should be modified to take account of this. . Show how the influence of placement methods and fertiliser formulation can affect the quantity and timing of fertiliser for a given crop. . Use the Nutrient Management Guide (England/Wales) or SRUC Technical Notes (Scotland) to arrive at a fertiliser recommendation. 15% total time

MODULE 6 - THE TRANSPORT, STORAGE AND HANDLING OF FERTILISERS

Aim To ensure awareness of the regulatory requirements for the safe and secure transport, storage and handling of fertilisers.

6.1 Competence Candidates should have a general knowledge of the statutory requirements and principles of safe transport and handling methods for fertilisers in order to advise customers with respect to fertiliser security, health and safety and the environment.

6.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to specify the criteria for safe transport, storage and handling for different fertiliser types and show an awareness of the source and location of further references to the appropriate regulations and industry assurance standards.

6.3 Essential Knowledge and Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Understand the principles of safe handling of fertilisers. . Understand the potential hazards to humans and the environment from spillages and contamination of water courses. . Understand the detailed requirements of storage which may help reduce the hazards of flammability / combustibility. . Demonstrate an awareness of the legal requirements with regard to transport and handling, including: Health and Safety and COSHH requirements, Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations, ADR and DGSA. . Demonstrate awareness of the requirements for safe, short and long term, storage of fertilisers, with regard to siting, pollution and fire risk and be aware of the relevant Industry Codes including the Five Point Plan. . Demonstrate knowledge of the authorities which should be notified when planning to store nitrogen based fertilisers (NISHH) and the Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990. . Understand the principle requirements and importance of the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS), in particular those elements relating to national fertiliser security. . Understand the particular security requirements for storage of ammonium nitrate-based fertilisers.

10% of total time

MODULE 7 - APPLICATION OF FERTILISERS

Aim To ensure awareness of the economic and environmental importance of accurate application of fertilisers and of the requirements for achieving accuracy.

7.1 Competence Candidates should be able to advise on the correct use of spreaders for solid and fluid fertilisers and organic nutrient sources to ensure accurate and efficient application of nutrients.

7.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to: . Identify equipment types and appreciate the principles of their maintenance, calibration and effective operation. . Understand the economic and environmental consequences of inaccurate nutrient spreading / application.

7.3 Essential Knowledge and Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Demonstrate awareness of the separate effects of applying the wrong rate of nutrients and of uneven application on crop yield, profitability and the environment. . Demonstrate awareness of the need to avoid nutrient application to non-crop areas, especially field margins and water courses. . Demonstrate the ability to identify the different types of application equipment and to describe the principles of their operation. . Demonstrate awareness of the main wearing parts in spreaders that will affect application rate or evenness of spreading. . Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of spreader/sprayer calibration for correct application rate. . Demonstrate an understanding of the use of tray tests for evenness of spreading. . Demonstrate an ability to identify a fertiliser type and to select appropriate spreader/sprayer settings from an instruction book. . Demonstrate an understanding of how to calculate an application rate at a variety of bout widths and forward speeds using a spreader handbook. . Demonstrate awareness of the effect fertiliser quality can have on spreader performance and of appropriate fertiliser quality assessment schemes.

5% of total time

MODULE 8 - CODE OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE AND LEGAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT.

Aim To increase awareness and technical competence relating to the handling, storage and use of fertilisers in agriculture and improve the ability to manage those nutrient interactions with the environment.

8.1 Competence Candidates should be able to advise merchants, transport operators, clients, farmers and storage controllers on the legal and environmental issues relating to all forms of fertilisers, prior to, during and post application.

8.2 Performance Criteria Candidates must be able to give soil and nutrient management guidance and advice to all purchasers, handlers and users of fertilisers and organic nutrient sources in line with legislation and environmental concerns as well as market requirements.

8.3 Essential Knowledge & Skills Candidates must have the ability to: . Describe the main environmental issues associated with nutrient management – leaching of nitrate, emission of nitrous oxide, volatilization of ammonia and movement of phosphorus to surface and ground waters. . Describe the main methods for minimising nutrient losses to the environment: rapid incorporation of manures, low emission spreading equipment for slurry and digestate, winter cover crops, urease and nitrification inhibitors, avoidance of anaerobic conditions and compaction in soil. . Understand current UK and EU environmental legislation concerning nutrient management, application and storage of fertiliser and organic nutrient sources, relevant to the advice required. . Demonstrate awareness of relevant codes of practice: Protecting Our Water, Soil and Air (England/Wales), PEPFAA (Scotland), Sewage sludge in agriculture: code of practice, Codes of good agricultural practice for reducing ammonia emissions (separate codes for England, Wales and Northern Ireland), AIC code for storing liquid fertilisers. . Describe the constraints on nitrogen use in NVZs, including limits on amounts, closed periods, storage of organic manures, no-spread areas and record keeping. . Describe the requirements of Farming rules for water (England). . Demonstrate awareness of ‘Catchment Sensitive Farming’ and explain where more detailed advice on Catchment Sensitive Farming can be obtained.

20% of total

SAMPLE MULTI-CHOICE QUESTIONS FOR THE FACTS EXAMINATION

The following sample questions give a guideline of the type and presentation of questions candidates will have to answer when taking the FACTS examination. They are purely intended as a guide as it is not possible to publish old examination papers since, once these have been published, questions cannot be used again. The written examination is followed by a viva. 1. Which of the following is not an essential plant nutrient? a) Molybdenum b) Sulphur c) Phosphate d) Cadmium* 2. How is nutrient content converted from w/w to w/v in a liquid fertiliser? a) Divide by the specific gravity b) Multiply by the specific gravity* c) No conversion needed, they are the same d) Multiply by 2 3. A recommendation is for 60 kg/ha of nitrogen. Convert to units/acre. a) 48* b) 75 c) 148 d) 24 4. The potassium index of a soil is estimated from: a) Soil type b) Potential yield of crop c) Laboratory analysis* d) Previous cropping history 5. Which of the following is not an acceptable way of storing liquid fertilisers? a) Mild steel tanks suitably coated and constructed b) Glass-fibre reinforced plastic tanks c) Un-supported flexible containers for temporary storage only* d) None of the above 6. If field heaps are used for the storage of poultry manure, what is the minimum distance which must separate them from water-courses, ditches and field drains? a) 5m b) 25m c) 15m d) 10m * 7. Which of the following is true? In Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs): a) no more than 170 kg N/ha of manufactured fertiliser-N can be applied to any crop b) manufactured nitrogen fertilisers cannot be applied to fields with shallow or sandy soil c) manufactured nitrogen fertilisers cannot be spread within 60m of a borehole d) farmers must keep records of all applications of manufactured nitrogen fertilisers* Questions in bold are considered more demanding on candidates. Question selection for multiple-choice

papers ensures a proportion of questions are in this category.

SAMPLE FERTILISER SCENARIO

The following scenario is an example of the type of question which will be asked in future FACTS exams. The questions which follow are an example of the type which could be asked. The exam paper will include a number of similar questions to those listed here which are designed to test the candidates’ ability, using the available information in RB209 or (for Scotland) the Scottish Technical Notes, the Soil Nitrogen Supply Index and/or a Nutrient Management Plan for the crop. The number of questions asked will reflect the time given for candidates to complete the paper.

Pass mark will be 70%

Please complete the following scenario questions. This is an open book exam (text books and notes allowed). Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) sections are colour-coded. Information on the SNS Index is in the brown section (pages 85 – 102) and recommendations for arable crops are in the blue section (pages 103 – 132). Please use information in the Nutrient Management Guide to answer the three questions below. The Soil Nitrogen Supply (SNS) Index is an indicator of the soils capacity to supply N to a crop in the absence of applied nitrogen. The more N the soil can supply, the less fertiliser N needs to be applied.

1. Given the information below, identify the appropriate SNS Index’s (current crop is winter wheat): Winter Soil type Previous crop Comments What is the excess SNS Index rainfall for current (mm) year? 260 Deep clay Sugar beet

185 Deep silt Beans

240 Medium 4 year ley, low No organic N, grazed manures applied past 3 years

2. How much nitrogen should be applied in the situations described below? You do not have to indicate timing of applications. Crop Use SNS Index Soil type What is the total amount of N to be applied in spring/early summer? Spring 2 Deep clay linseed Winter Feed 3 Medium wheat Sugar beet 1 Silt loam

3. How much phosphate and potash should be applied in the situations described below? Crop P Index K Index Yield (t/ha) How much How much P2O5 should K2O should be applied? be applied? Winter 1 0 9 wheat (straw incorporated) Potatoes 3 1 50

REFERENCE MATERIALS

The following list of reference books may be helpful to candidates intending to take training and the examination for the FACTS Certificate. Candidates are not expected to obtain all of the publications listed, many may already be held in company's own libraries. Having access to the publications will be sufficient. They are in any event only required for reference material unless marked * when they are essential tools.

GENERAL AGRICULTURE Crop Husbandry – Lockhart and Wiseman, Elsevier ( http://store.elsevier.com/Lockhart-and- Wiseman%E2%80%99s-Crop-Husbandry-Including-Grassland/Steve-Finch/isbn-9781782423713/ )

SOILS/FERTILISER REFERENCES * Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) www.ahdb.org.uk/rb209

Tried and Tested Nutrient Management Plan, AIC, BGS, LEAF, NFU, CLA ( www.nutrientmanagement.org )

Phosphorus in Agriculture and in Relation to Water Quality, AE Johnston, CJ Dawson (2005) (www.agindustries.org.uk )

* Protecting our Water, Soil and Air, Code of Good Agricultural Practice (or equivalent for Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland). English code in PDF from Defra ( www.gov.uk/government/publications/protecting- our-water-soil-and-air )

Code of Practice for Agricultural Use of Sewage Sludge (1986) http://adlib.everysite.co.uk/adlib/defra/content.aspx?id=4197 or www.hutton.ac.uk/sites/default/files/files/sludge-cop.pdf

* The Safe Sludge Matrix ( http://adlib.everysite.co.uk/resources/000/094/727/SSMatrix.pdf )

Biosolids Assurance Scheme https://assuredbiosolids.co.uk/

Renewable Fertiliser Matrix www.wrap.org.uk/sites/files/wrap/WRAP_DC- Agri_Renewable_Fertiliser_Matrix.pdf

Diagnosis of Mineral Disorders in Plants – Vol 1: Principles – C Bould, E J Hewitt, P Needham MAFF/ARC HMSO (copies usually available at www.amazon.co.uk)

Farming, Fertilisers and the Nitrate Problem - T M Addiscott, A P Whitmore, D S Powlson IACR Rothamsted (out of print but sometimes available at www.abebooks.com or www.amazon.com )

* Guidance on complying with the rules for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones in England for 2013 to 2016, Defra (www.gov.uk/nitrate-vulnerable-zones ) or NVZ Guidance for Farmers in Scotland (www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/farmingrural/Agriculture/Environment/NVZintro ) or guidance for the Nitrates Action Programme in Northern Ireland ( https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/nitrates-action- programme-nap-and-phosphorus-regulations-2015-2018 )

Greenhouse Gas Action Plan ( www.agindustries.org.uk )

The Fertiliser Directory – Dr I Richards, Context Publications ( www.contextbookshop.com )

Principles of Plant Nutrition – Konrad Mengel and Ernest A Kirkby (usually available at www.amazon.co.uk ) Fertiliser Spreaders Manual ( www.agindustries.org.uk ) Soil Management - D B Davies, D J Eagle and B Finney, Farming Press (usually available at www.amazon.co.uk)

Managing Livestock Manures Three booklets available in the library at www.nutrientmanagement.org

LEAF Sustainable Farming Review ( www.leafuk.org/leaf/farmers/LSFR.eb )

Storing and Handling Ammonium Nitrate, IND (G) 23OL, Health and Safety Executive, 1997 (www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg230.pdf )

*Five Point Plan for Fertiliser Security (www.gov.uk/government/publications/fertiliser )

USEFUL WEBSITES www.agindustries.org.uk www.aglime.org.uk www.adlib.ac.uk www.basis-reg.co.uk www.gov.uk www.fertiliser-society.org www.factsinfo.org.uk www.leafuk.org www.pda.org.uk www.scotland.gov.uk www.sepa.org.uk www.daera-ni.gov.uk www.doeni.gov.uk http://customers.hbci.com/~wenonah/min-def/list.htm

VIDEOS Pollution – prevention pays, Environment Agency http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20121018161652/youtube.com/watch?v=LyDjC-KXANI

REGULATIONS Candidates must be familiar with the regulations but are not expected to be authoritative.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994, SI No 1657 (www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg136.pdf )

Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990, SI No 304 (www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsr29.htm )

Explosives Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1972, as amended, SI No 118 [not for mainland]

The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations, 2009 SI No 1348 (www.hse.gov.uk/cdg/regs.htm )

The Fertilisers Regulations 1991, as amended, SI No 2197

Copies of all the above can be obtained from the Stationery Office, at http://www.legislation.gov.uk/

BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

Landsmans Bookshop Limited Buckenhill Bromyard Hereford HR7 4PH

Tel/Fax: 01885 483420

Defra PUBLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

The Stationery Office PO Box 29 NORWICH NR3 1GN

Online bookshop at www.tso.co.uk

Also available from: Defra Publications Admail 6000 LONDON SW1A 2XX

AIC PUBLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

The Agricultural Industries Confederation East of England Showground Peterborough PE2 6XE

Tel: 01733 385230 Fax: 01733 385270 Website: www.agindustries.org.uk

PDA LEAFLETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

The Potash Development Association PO Box 236 Middlesbrough TS8 8BZ

Tel/Fax: 01904 492009 Website: www.pda.org.uk Email: [email protected]

THE BASIS DIPLOMA IN AGRONOMY

The breadth and scope of knowledge needed for crop protection sales and advice grows every year. New products, new techniques and the way that crop protection fits with other farm and crop management activities all add to the skills needed by those involved in sales and advice for Crop Protection. To cover the range of factors involved, the new BASIS Diploma in Agronomy, as set out below, gives a comprehensive training and qualification framework for those involved in on-farm advice and sales.

THE BASIS DIPLOMA IN AGRONOMY

NECESSARY BETA / PLANT ADVANCED or NUTRIENT SOIL & = QUALIFICATIONS / CONSERVATION PROTECTION MODULE MANAGEMENT WATER MODULES MANAGEMENT AWARD PLANNING

ENTRY = & FACTS REQUIREMENTS BASIS CERTIFICATE IN CROP PROTECTION

TOPICS COVERED

ADVANCED MODULE / NUTRIENT Weed, Pest & Disease Control, Crop Protection Programmes, MANAGEMENT PLANNING Marketing, Food Industries, Crop Assurance, Nutrient Management

BETA / CONSERVATION Environment, Biodiversity, EIS’s, IFM, Climate Change MANAGEMENT

PLANT PROTECTION Systems & Society, Formulation, Mode of Action, Application, Health AWARD (PPA) & Safety

SOIL & WATER MANAGEMENT Cultivation Types and Properties, Cropping Systems, Water Quality, Drainage, Pollution / Waste, Plant Nutrition

For the PPA and the Advanced Crop Module the prior achievement (by examination, exemption or validated certificate) of the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection is an entry requirement. For the Advanced Nutrient Management Planning, Waste to Land and Quality of Soils courses the prior achievement of the FACTS qualification is required.

The FACTS qualification is a requirement for successful completion of the BASIS Diploma and strongly recommended for those wishing to train for the Soil & Water Management Certificate.

It is strongly recommended that candidates should have had at least two years experience of on-farm practical agronomy before attempting any of the modules which contribute towards the BASIS Diploma in Agronomy, but in particular before taking the Plant Protection Award.

BASIS CPD points are available for training and certification in all modules of the BASIS Diploma in Agronomy.

The accreditation process for our qualifications has enabled BASIS to demonstrate a high standard of training and certification for our BASIS courses. The BASIS Diploma comprises a number of modules and 6 are required to complete the qualification.

A further consequence of accreditation by Harper Adams University and the Higher Education qualifications framework has been the development by Harper Adams University of a Graduate Diploma in Agronomy with Environmental Management.

This is a 120 credit graduate level qualification.

BASIS courses have all been awarded a number of credits based on the time spent on the course (Targeted Learning Hours). This is a recognised formula including face to face tuition time, research, reading and experiential learning. The credits are awarded at a level that reflects the intensity / difficulty of the learning materials, for example A-level equivalent or 1st, 2nd or final year honours degree etc.

The qualifying BASIS courses with credits and levels awarded are shown below:

FACTS Credit Value 15 Level 5 - Intermediate

SOIL & WATER MANAGEMENT Credit Value 15 Level 6 - Honours

BASIS CROP PROTECTION Credit Value 30 Level 6 - Honours

BASIS PLANT PROTECTION AWARD Credit Value 15 Level 6 - Honours

BASIS ADVANCED MODULES / NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANNING Credit Value 15 Level 6 - Honours

BETA / CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT Credit Value 15 Level 5 - Intermediate

Intermediate = 2nd or 3 rd year of university degree qualification.

Honours level – final year university degree.

Eg. FACTS 15 credits = 150 hours notional teaching time

The six modules required for the BASIS Diploma add up to 105 credits. In order to qualify for the Harper Adams University Graduate Diploma in Agronomy with Environmental Management, candidates will need to accumulate 120 credits (ie One extra 15 credit module in addition to the BASIS Diploma). This can be any of the Advanced Modules, including Nutrient Management Planning and Waste to Land.

Further details of the BASIS Diploma in Agronomy can be obtained from the BASIS office or by e-mail to [email protected]

BASIS APPROVED TRAINERS

The following Colleges, Trainers and Training Providers are successfully running FACTS examinations and have been accepted as BASIS Approved Trainers for FACTS.

Boston & North Wash Training Group Contact: Margaret Dawson Kiln House Tel: 01205 480898 West Fen email: [email protected] Stickney, BOSTON Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis Lincolnshire PE22 8BH Web: http://boston--north-wash-training-group.mytrainingwebsite.co.uk/

CAFRE Greenmount Campus Contact: Steven Wallace 22 Greenmount Road Tel: 02894 426935 ANTRIM email: [email protected] Co Antrim Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis Northern Ireland Web: www.cafre.ac.uk BT41 4PU

Chelmsford & West Essex Training Group Contact / Trainer: Debbie Wedge 2 Salisbury Cottages, Maldon Rd Tel: 01245 381193 Hatfield Peverel email: [email protected] CHELMSFORD Trainer: Debbie Wedge Essex, CM3 2HS Web: http://www.cwetg.org

Chris Tolley Agronomy Contact: Chris Tolley Woodlands Farm Tel: 07753 882610 Hallamford Road Email: [email protected] Shepshed Trainer: Chris Tolley LOUGHBOROUGH Web: www.chris-tolley.co.uk Leicestershire LE12 9GY

DJL Agronomics Contact: Dr Jim Lewis Highgrove House Tel: 07831 120363 Cassbrook Drive email: [email protected] Fulstow Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis LOUTH, LN11 0XR Web: www.djlag.co.uk

Dorset Training Ltd Contact: Anna Chambers Unit 3 Tel: 01258 837197 / 07734 079495 Deverel Farm email: [email protected] Milborne St Andrew Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis BLANDFORD FORUM Web: www.dorsettraining.org.uk Dorset DT11 0HX

Earthcare Technical Ltd Contact: Anna Becvar Head Office Tel: 02392 290488 Manor Farm email: [email protected] Charlton Trainer: Anna Becvar WATERLOOVILLE Web: www.earthcaretechnical.co.uk Hampshire PO8 0BG

Hampshire Training Providers Ltd Contact: Catherine Mercer Unit G Tel: 07884 260798 Ashe Warren Farm email: [email protected] Overton Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis BASINGSTOKE Web: www.hampshire-training.co.uk Hampshire RG25 3AW

Harper Adams University Contact: Lisa Plant Edgmond Tel: 01952 815300 NEWPORT email: [email protected] Shropshire Trainer: Russell Readman TF10 8NB Web: www.harper-adams.ac.uk/courses/short-course/

Holbeach Marsh Training Group Contact: Lynne Richardson 27 Sorrel Drive Tel: 01775 762977 SPALDING email: [email protected] Lincolnshire Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis PE11 3GN Web: www.hmtg.co.uk

James Christian-Ilett Contact: James Christian-Ilett 8 Painshall Close Tel: 07483 282060 Welton email: [email protected] LINCOLN Trainer : James Christian-Ilett Lincolnshire LN2 3NU

Landbased Training Contact: Linda Bower Garth Cottage Tel: 01944 758379 Wintringham email: [email protected] MALTON Trainer: Debbie Wedge North Yorkshire YO17 8HX Web: www.landbased-training.com

Mid Kent Training Contact: Dianne Quested Suite 1, The Stables, Court Lodge Farm Tel/Fax: 01233 813688 Hinxhill Email: [email protected] ASHFORD Trainer: Debbie Wedge Kent Web: www.midkenttraining.co.uk TN25 5NR

Moulton College Contact : Steph Brown West Street Tel: 01604 673532 Moulton email: [email protected] NORTHAMPTON Trainer: Chris Tolley Northamptonshire Web: www.moulton.ac.uk NN3 7RR

Royal Agricultural University Contact: Carole Rooke Stroud Road Tel: 01285 851830 CIRENCESTER email: [email protected] Gloucestershire Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis GL7 6JS Web: www.rau.ac.uk

SRUC Contact: Laura Graham Caledonian Marts Tel: 01316 037500 Stirling Email: [email protected] STIRLING Trainer: FK7 7LS Web: www.sac.co.uk

The Training Association (East) Contact: Rob Tarry High Cottage Tel: 01485 600225 St Andrews Lane email: [email protected] Congham Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis KINGS LYNN Web: www.traineast.co.uk Norfolk, PE32 1DS

The Training Association (West) Contact: Jo Bruce Northfield Tel: 01366 500050 The Row email: [email protected] Wereham Trainer: Dr Jim Lewis KINGS LYNN Web: www.traineast.co.uk Norfolk PE33 9AY

University of Lincoln Contact: Dr Simon Goodger Riseholme Park Tel: 01522 835295 LINCOLN email: [email protected] Lincolnshire Trainer: Dr Simon Goodger LN2 2LG Web: http://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/liat/shortcourses/

Vale Training Services Contact: Kate Mason Marsh Hill Farm Tel: 01296 612201 Marsh email: [email protected] AYLESBURY Trainer: Debbie Wedge Buckinghamshire, HP17 8ST Web: www.valetrainingservices.co.uk

The following Colleges, Trainers and Training Organisations have expressed an interest in running some, or all, of the training modules and / or the FACTS examination.

ADAS Gleadthorpe (UK) Ltd Contact: Paul Newell-Price Orchard House Tel: 01623 844331 Gleadthorpe email: [email protected] Meden Vale Trainer: Paul Newell-Price MANSFIELD Nottinghamshire NG20 9PF

City College Norwich Contact: James Trounce Easton Campus Tel: 01603 731548 Easton email: [email protected] NORWICH Trainer: James Trounce Norfolk Web: www.eastonotley.ac.uk NR9 5DX

Duchy College Contact: Alex Stephens Stoke Climsland Tel: 01208 873220 CALLINGTON email: [email protected] Cornwall Trainer: Alex Stephens PL17 8PB Web: www.duchy.ac.uk

Fieldfare Associates Ltd Contact: Amy Airey c/o SAC Consulting Tel: 01539 566987 J36 Rural Auction Centre email: [email protected] Crooklands Trainer: Neil Carter MILNTHORPE Web : www.fieldfareassociates.co.uk Cumbria LA7 7FP

02 February 2021