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Biodynamic apprenticeships
A two-year apprenticeship scheme, co-ordinated by the Biodynamic Agricultural Association to provide PRACTICAL TRAINING in biodynamic farming or gardening has been established at a number of biodynamic farms and gardens across the country. A common training programme has been agreed between the various centres.
Essentially practical in nature, this training programme offers an opportunity for aspiring farmers and gardeners to work and learn alongside experienced practitioners. All aspects of the daily and seasonal work are introduced in a direct hands-on way and the apprentice will be encouraged to keep a work diary.
The practical training is supported by study sessions. These are structured according to the needs and possibilities. In some places a morning a week, in others an evening a week is set aside throughout the year, usually with a break for the summer months. Some farms, as in the Severn Valley region offer weekend seminars at longer intervals throughout the year. Some apprentices join in with local day release courses, where these are found to be suitable.
Weekly study sessions are also offered on the holding to work through basic anthroposophical books such as Theosophy, Esoteric Science and The Philosophy of Freedom as well as the Agriculture Course.
In addition to ongoing theoretical studies in each centre, the BDAA offers four week-long block courses during the 2-year period. These courses will cover:
SOILS
Soil constituents, texture & structure (silica, clay, limestone)
Soil life and humus formation
Soil development & fertility,
Influence of soil cultivation and cropping sequence
The importance of animals & animal manure
Soil testing / sampling
Field observations
Interpretations of laboratory tests.
PLANTS
Goethean observation techniques: plant morphology, the fourfold plant and plant anatomy
The annual cycle in the plant
Crop rotations and companion planting
Fertility management and garden planning
Seed gathering and processing
Principles of seed breeding
ANIMALS
Understanding and observation of animal nature using Goethean techniques
Animal care: cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, bees
Housing & feeding
Breeding & rearing
Health & illness
ASTRONOMY
The zodiac constellations and the planets
The heavens from the geocentric and heliocentric point of view
Planetary influences on the earth
The sowing calendar - practical applications
World evolution — from the anthroposophical point of view
All the above courses will include artistic activities, discussions, questions, and reviews, field trips, anthroposophical studies and social gatherings.
Certificate
On completion of the training, apprentices will receive a certificate issued by the BDAA.
Costs
Apprentices work on the farms and gardens in return for board and lodgings and their practical tuition. Other costs are also usually carried by the centre, including those of the block courses. Some centres may require a contribution towards these costs. In order to make it possible for everyone who wishes to participate, a training fund exists. Any donations towards this are gratefully received. Please make cheques payable to BDAA and mark "Training Fund".
Application
Please apply directly to Oaklands Park. It is helpful if you include some details of your interests and experience in your letter of application. Further placements available through the BDAA Office.
