Getting Started:  What do you want from your cows?  Choosing a breed.  Buying Cattle.  Legislation, passports & movement rules.  TB testing.

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Essential Equipment:  Safe handling systems are vital when dealing with cattle.  We will look at some simple, cost effective options.  We will also discuss tractors, bale handling and mucking out equipment.

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Grazing:  We will show you around our rotational, mixed grazing system.  Fencing for cattle.  Mineral supplements and licks.

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Winter:  A look at our winter  housing set up.  Winter feed - silage & hay.

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Health:  Keeping your cows healthy:  routine vaccinations, worming, liver fluke.  Common health problems and how to deal with them.

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Breeding:  Keeping a bull.  Artificial Insemination - timing and observation of the oestrus cycle.  Pregnancy diagnosis.

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Calving:  We will look at how a normal calving should proceed, and when you may need to intervene or call the vet.

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Calves:  Routine management - disbudding/dehorning, castration, ear tags.

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Finishing Cattle:  Age, weight and condition to finish for beef.  Dealing with abattoirs and butchers. The final product - cuts and quantities of beef.

What else is Included?

A homecooked lunch, including some of the delicious produce straight from our smallholding.   There will also be plenty of tea/coffee and

homebaking.

All courses include a comprehensive book, covering all of the information taught during the day.

Courses are held in small groups (max 8 people on this course), and are relaxed, friendly events. Questions and discussion are encouraged!

Many people stay in touch following the course, and we are very happy to answer any further questions you might have after the day.

Please note that there is a minimum age of 16 for all courses.