Kick start your career in rural operations with this entry-level qualification. This course will give you the foundation skills you need to work across a range of positions in agriculture or horticulture.
AHC21216 Certificate II in Rural Operations
TAFE at School Subsidised | $0 |
Make a start on your rural operations career with this entry-level course. This qualification will give you the practical skills you need to work in varied capacities in agriculture, horticulture, and animal care.
According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the number of people working as general farm hands few very strongly over the past five years. There is stable future growth predicted in this area with around 3,000 job openings expected over the next five years.
If you choose to study the rural operations stream, you will develop basic knowledge and practical skills across livestock handling, health and welfare, fencing, machinery maintenance and operation, and more. If you choose to study the horticulture stream, you will learn to recognise, propagate and plant different plants, operate horticultural machinery and equipment, treat weeds, pests and diseases, construct landscape, paving and retaining walls, establish turf, and more. You can also choose to specialise in animal studies with a focus on small animals. Our passionate, industry experienced staff are still strongly embedded in the industry and will give you the one-on-one guidance you need to succeed.
Successful completion of this course will give you the skills to work across a variety of entry-level positions in rural operations, agriculture, horticulture, or animal care including station hand, first year jackaroo/jillaroo, yardsman, gardener, landscaping assistant, nursery hand, and more. You will also have a solid foundation to continue with further study.
Our courses are delivered by passionate industry experts with years of experience in the agricultural sector. Our teachers understand the manual aspects of the job and are ahead of the game in innovation and tech, preparing you for the future of farming in Australia.
Depending on your location TAFE Queensland offers specialised streams in rural operations, agriculture and animal studies, animal sciences, or horticulture. You can develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work across a variety of areas within the industry.
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 12 elective units from the list below.
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
AHCWHS201Participate in work health and safety processesUnit code: AHCWHS201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise and report hazards in the workplace. It also describes the skills and knowledge required to follow workplace safety procedures and directions. |
Participate in work health and safety processes | |
AHCWRK204Work effectively in the industryUnit code: AHCWRK204 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to work effectively on an individual basis and with others as well as within a hierarchy of management. |
Work effectively in the industry | |
AHCWRK209Participate in environmentally sustainable work practicesUnit code: AHCWRK209 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to follow workplace procedures and instructions and to participate in environmentally sustainable work practices. |
Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices |
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
ACMGAS201Work in the animal care industryUnit code: ACMGAS201 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the terminology, culture and working conditions of an animal care workplace when working on an individual basis and with others. |
Work in the animal care industry | |
ACMGAS202AParticipate in workplace communicationsUnit code: ACMGAS202A Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of effectively participating in workplace communications in an animal care and management environment. |
Participate in workplace communications | |
ACMGAS203Complete animal care hygiene routinesUnit code: ACMGAS203 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the responsibilities and procedures required to provide daily care of animals, including the cleaning of animal housing and grooming or cleaning of animals under supervision. |
Complete animal care hygiene routines | |
ACMGAS204Feed and water animalsUnit code: ACMGAS204 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of preparing, presenting and distributing food and water for animals under supervision and according to workplace diet requirements. |
Feed and water animals | |
ACMGAS205Assist in health care of animalsUnit code: ACMGAS205 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of providing assistance to experienced staff in the capture, restraint and assessment of animals and the preparation, application and documentation of treatments. |
Assist in health care of animals | |
ACMGAS206Provide basic first aid for animalsUnit code: ACMGAS206 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of providing essential first aid for animals by recognising and responding to an emergency using basic first aid measures. The first aider is not expected to deal with complex casualties or incidents, but to provide an initial response where first aid is required. |
Provide basic first aid for animals | |
ACMGAS207AProvide reception services for an animal care facilityUnit code: ACMGAS207A Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of coordinating client (animal owner) appointments or bookings and undertaking office administration and basic financial tasks for an animal care facility. |
Provide reception services for an animal care facility | |
AHCCHM201Apply chemicals under supervisionUnit code: AHCCHM201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to apply chemicals using workplace specific application equipment under supervision. |
Apply chemicals under supervision | |
AHCHBR202AHandle young horsesUnit code: AHCHBR202A Unit description: This unit covers the process of handling young horses and defines the standard required to: catch and handle foals; assist with weaning foals; teach weanlings to lead; catch, handle, groom and exercise yearlings; prepare yearlings for sale to industry standards. |
Handle young horses | |
AHCHBR203AProvide daily care for horsesUnit code: AHCHBR203A Unit description: This unit covers the process of providing daily care for horses and defines the standard required to: complete stable routines efficiently; complete daily horse maintenance; select horses for a range of purposes; catch and tie up horses; groom or rug horses as required by the organisation; clean and maintain equipment; work safely around horses. |
Provide daily care for horses | |
AHCINF201ACarry out basic electric fencing operationsUnit code: AHCINF201A Unit description: This unit covers the process of installing and maintaining electric fences in a rural enterprise and defines the standard required to: select the correct tools and equipment; apply appropriate methods to install and maintain electric fences; erect fences to contour; safely install components without damage; dismantle and transport fences. |
Carry out basic electric fencing operations | |
AHCINF202AInstall, maintain and repair fencingUnit code: AHCINF202A Unit description: This unit covers the process of installing, maintaining and repairing fencing and defines the standard required to: select the appropriate materials and tools; erect fence; install gates and components; assess the fencing site for environmental impacts of the fence; undertake repairs, record work activities and clean up the fencing site; remove and dispose of, or recycle waste. |
Install, maintain and repair fencing | |
AHCINF203Maintain properties and structuresUnit code: AHCINF203 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain and repair properties and structures in situations that don’t require the specialist skills of another trade. |
Maintain properties and structures | |
AHCIRG217Assist with pressurised irrigation operationsUnit code: AHCIRG217 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to assist installing, operating and maintaining pressurised irrigation systems. These systems use sprinklers and generally use glued PVC pipe. |
Assist with pressurised irrigation operations | |
AHCLSK202ACare for health and welfare of livestockUnit code: AHCLSK202A Unit description: This unit covers the process required to monitor the health and welfare of livestock and defines the standard required to: monitor and assess livestock health and welfare; select, use and maintain specialised animal health equipment; prepare treatment site, facilities and equipment; administer drenches, vaccines and medication to livestock; monitor the effectiveness of treatments and report issues and keep and maintain records. |
Care for health and welfare of livestock | |
AHCLSK204Carry out regular livestock observationUnit code: AHCLSK204 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out regular livestock observation. |
Carry out regular livestock observation | |
AHCLSK205Handle livestock using basic techniquesUnit code: AHCLSK205 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely move, draft and control livestock using basic methods and procedures in an agricultural enterprise. |
Handle livestock using basic techniques | |
AHCLSK206Identify and mark livestockUnit code: AHCLSK206 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out the identification and marking of livestock. |
Identify and mark livestock | |
AHCLSK207Load and unload livestockUnit code: AHCLSK207 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to load and unload animals for transport. |
Load and unload livestock | |
AHCLSK209AMonitor water suppliesUnit code: AHCLSK209A Unit description: This unit covers the process of monitoring the supply of potable water for livestock from water storages and sources and defines the standard required to: record and report water supply information, activities and system performance; read and follow manufacturer's procedures; identify blockages and clear them using safe working procedures; check flow rates and inspect and report on water supplies with only routine supervision. |
Monitor water supplies | |
AHCLSK210Muster and move livestockUnit code: AHCLSK210 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to muster and move livestock as part of a team. |
Muster and move livestock | |
AHCLSK211AProvide feed for livestockUnit code: AHCLSK211A Unit description: This unit covers the process of preparing and providing feed for livestock in an extensive agricultural environment and defines the standard required to: monitor and record livestock condition; apply methods and procedures to provide feed and feed supplements; safely handle livestock and report feeding abnormalities; maintain records. |
Provide feed for livestock | |
AHCMOM201Operate two wheel motorbikesUnit code: AHCMOM201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain and operate two wheel motor bikes. |
Operate two wheel motorbikes | |
AHCMOM202Operate tractorsUnit code: AHCMOM202 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate tractors with and without attached equipment. |
Operate tractors | |
AHCMOM203Operate basic machinery and equipmentUnit code: AHCMOM203 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain machinery and equipment. |
Operate basic machinery and equipment | |
AHCMOM204Undertake operational maintenance of machineryUnit code: AHCMOM204 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake operational maintenance of machinery. |
Undertake operational maintenance of machinery | |
AHCMOM212Operate quad bikesUnit code: AHCMOM212 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain quad bikes as well as load and unload them onto trailers or other vehicles used for their transport. |
Operate quad bikes | |
AHCPCM201Recognise plantsUnit code: AHCPCM201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise commonly encountered plants. Plants include desired species as well as weeds. |
Recognise plants | |
AHCPGD201Plant trees and shrubsUnit code: AHCPGD201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to manually plant trees and shrubs and other containerised and bare-rooted plants. |
Plant trees and shrubs | |
AHCPGD202Prepare and maintain plant displaysUnit code: AHCPGD202 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare and maintain a plant display. |
Prepare and maintain plant displays | |
AHCPGD203Prune shrubs and small treesUnit code: AHCPGD203 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prune shrubs and small trees that are less than three meters in height while standing on the ground. |
Prune shrubs and small trees | |
AHCPMG201Treat weedsUnit code: AHCPMG201 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise significant weed species and apply a range of weed treatment control options. |
Treat weeds | |
AHCSOL202Assist with soil or growing media sampling and testingUnit code: AHCSOL202 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with the sampling and testing of soil or growing media sampling and testing. |
Assist with soil or growing media sampling and testing | |
AHCWOL201APen sheepUnit code: AHCWOL201A Unit description: This unit covers the process of penning up sheep and defines the standard required to: observe differences between mobs of sheep; observe workflow and estimate rates for refilling the catching pens and for mob cutout; move sheep in a shed and pen them up; monitor sheep density and check for contaminants in wool. |
Pen sheep | |
AHCWRK201AObserve and report on weatherUnit code: AHCWRK201A Unit description: This unit covers the process of observing and reporting on weather and climate conditions for an agricultural, horticultural or land management enterprise and defines the standard required to: monitor and interpret weather information; communicate warnings and concerns; identify weather and climate conditions and its impact upon farming and grazing activities; follow directions to minimise loss and damage to staff, livestock, crops, property; produce and review farm enterprises and operations for weather risk. |
Observe and report on weather | |
AHCWRK205Participate in workplace communicationsUnit code: AHCWRK205 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to participate in workplace communications. |
Participate in workplace communications |
Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.
Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ipswich | 01 February 2021 | 1 year | 1 day per week - Horticulture Stream | Mixed mode | TAFE at School Subsidised: $0 |
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Roma | 01 February 2021 | 1 year | 1 day per week | Mixed mode | TAFE at School Subsidised: $0 |
Toowoomba | 01 February 2021 | 1 year | 1 day per week | Mixed mode | TAFE at School Subsidised: $0 |
Charleville | 01 February 2021 | 1 year | 1 day per week | Mixed mode | TAFE at School Subsidised: $0 |
You must be a Year 10, 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.
Course placements are subject to availability.
AHC21216 Certificate II in Rural Operations
QCE points: 4
Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathwaysNo matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what's right for you, get in touch. We're here to help.
This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.
You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.
You are responsible for meeting the minimum occupational health and safety requirements in practical classes. This includes having access to and wearing appropriate attire including cotton long sleeved shirts and trousers, safety footwear compliant with the Australian Standard AS 2210, safety glasses, and a broad brimmed hat.
Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.
Disclaimer
All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.
If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.
Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. Getting recognition for the skills you've gained from the workplace or previous learning means less study time for you, and getting the paper to prove you're qualified a whole lot sooner. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.
If you have read and understood the student rules, refund policy, understand your fees and payment options, have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) and checked you meet the entry requirements and selection criteria for this course, you're ready to get started.
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathways