Agronomy

FACTS (Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme)

Assessment type

Training and assessment

Minimum duration

6 Days

Course delivery

Final Examination
Classroom
Training and assessment

Description


The FACTS (Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme) course is designed for individuals who wish to develop the knowledge and competence required to provide professional advice on fertiliser use and crop nutrition whilst protecting the environment and promoting sustainable agricultural production.

Combining structured classroom-based learning with practical exercises, group discussions and independent study, delegates will develop an in-depth understanding of soil science, plant nutrition, fertiliser use, nutrient management planning and environmental legislation. The qualification is widely recognised across the agricultural industry and is a requirement for a number of advisory roles and farm assurance schemes, including Red Tractor.


Who Should Attend?

  • Agronomists and trainee agronomists.
  • Agricultural advisers and consultants.
  • Farmers and farm managers.
  • Fertiliser manufacturer and distributor representatives.
  • Agricultural merchants and crop nutrition specialists.
  • Individuals wishing to become qualified to provide fertiliser advice.

What You Will Learn

  • Soil science and plant nutrition.
  • Organic nutrient sources and nutrient availability.
  • The nature and properties of manufactured fertilisers.
  • Crop nutrient requirements and nutrient management planning.
  • Fertiliser recommendations for major UK crop groups.
  • Transport, storage and safe handling of fertilisers.
  • Fertiliser application techniques and best practice.
  • Nutrient management planning.
  • Codes of Good Agricultural Practice.
  • Environmental legislation, including Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) and Farming Rules for Water.
  • Sustainable nutrient management and environmental protection.

Practical Learning

  • Interpreting soil analysis results.
  • Calculating crop nutrient requirements.
  • Developing nutrient management plans.
  • Applying fertiliser recommendations to practical farm scenarios.
  • Assessing nutrient sources and application strategies.
  • Group exercises based on real agricultural case studies.

Assessment

Assessment is conducted by BASIS Registration Ltd and consists of a combination of written examinations and professional assessment designed to confirm delegates' knowledge and competence in fertiliser advice and nutrient management. Assessment requirements are determined by BASIS and may be subject to change.


Certification

Upon successful completion of the programme and BASIS assessments, delegates will be awarded the FACTS Certificate of Competence in Fertiliser Advice.

The FACTS qualification is recognised throughout the UK agricultural industry and demonstrates competence in providing sound, environmentally responsible fertiliser and nutrient management advice. It is recognised by a number of industry assurance schemes and forms an important progression route towards advanced BASIS qualifications.


Entry Requirements

Delegates should possess a good understanding of crop production and agronomy before attending the course. Previous experience in agriculture, crop production or nutrient management is strongly recommended, and BASIS advises that candidates have practical agronomic experience before attempting the qualification.


Course Duration

The programme is typically delivered over 5-6 days of formal tuition, supported by independent study, followed by the BASIS assessment process. Delivery arrangements may vary depending on the training provider and course schedule.


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