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GREEN CERT IRELAND · QQI LEVEL 5 + 6
Questions farmers actually ask
Written the way people search at 11pm. If yours isn’t here, ask us — the consultation is free.
ELIGIBILITY & ENTRY
Do I need the Green Cert to inherit or take over a farm?
Not to inherit as such — but the qualified-farmer reliefs that make a transfer affordable (stamp duty exemption under 35, consanguinity and stock reliefs) and young-farmer supports generally require it. Most successors get certified before papers move. See grants & eligibility.
What are the entry requirements?
Knowledge, skill and competence associated with NFQ Level 4, and a Category W learner permit (tractor licence). We check both with you at application.
I don't have an Irish PPS number — can I still do it?
You can complete the training, but QQI awards require an Irish or UK PPS number; without one you’d receive a Forus completion certificate rather than the QQI parchment. Tell us early and we’ll talk options.
English isn't my first language — will that be a problem?
We’ll review your previous education at application; where there are fluency concerns you may be asked to take a short test (targeting B2 intermediate) with a speaking-and-listening interview. If you qualify, your trainer is briefed to support you, and course materials are transcribed so translation tools can help while your fluency builds.
How computer-literate do I need to be?
If you can use a smartphone, you can do this course. You’ll need a device with internet (10mbps+), a modern browser, and word-processing software. The induction includes a full LMS walkthrough.
STUDY, TIME & ATTENDANCE
How many hours a week does it really take?
Plan for the one-hour live evening class plus self-directed LMS study — a few hours in a normal week, more around assessments. Farm days and the 150-hour placements are scheduled in blocks you can plan around.
What attendance is required?
80% or more across your studies. Extenuating circumstances can be considered within reason, and farm days have backup dates — the Attendance Policy is published.
What if I miss a farm day?
Tell us early and we’ll reschedule you to a backup date where possible. Farm days are capped-group, planned events, so late no-shows are the one thing the system can’t absorb well.
Can I do the whole thing self-paced with no live classes?
No — and honestly, that’s on purpose. The weekly class, farm days and skills demonstrations are where the qualification earns its recognition. If fully self-paced is what you want, this isn’t the right course.
FARM DAYS & PLACEMENT
Do I need my own farm or land?
No. Placements are arranged on Forus-approved host farms. They must be at least 10km from home, and learners under 23 complete theirs off the family farm.
Where are the farm hubs?
Across the midlands and surrounds — Westmeath, Meath, Offaly, Kildare, Laois, Longford and Roscommon at present, with the network growing. The Farm Hub Network.
What do I need to bring to a farm day?
Clean wellingtons and overalls, weather-appropriate gear, and the task sheet from your LMS. PPE requirements and biosecurity rules are briefed in advance.
ASSESSMENT & RESULTS
I haven't sat an exam since school. Honestly, how hard is it?
You’ll have sample exams and practice question banks with solutions before any assessment that counts; skills demonstrations are marked against criteria you see in advance; and tutors are contactable every week. Our learners are working adults — the whole system assumes it.
What happens if I fail something or submit late?
There are published routes for everything: repeat opportunities and resit supports, extensions for genuine unforeseen circumstances (apply before the deadline to avoid fees or delays), and a recheck, review and appeals procedure if you disagree with a result.
When do I get results and my certificate?
Provisional results within four weeks of submitting assessments. QQI certifies six times a year — February, April, June, August, October and December — with certificates roughly five weeks after each window closes.
Is Recognition of Prior Learning available?
Yes. If your experience or prior education covers ground the course does, RPL can support entry or shorten your route. Raise it at consultation with whatever evidence you have — we’ll tell you straight what it’s worth.
FEES, PROTECTION & TRUST
Can I spread the cost?
Yes — pay in full or via ten monthly payments (small plan admin fee applies). Employers and co-ops can be invoiced for group bookings. Fees & how to apply.
Is there a grant to pay for the course itself?
Private provision is generally self-funded or employer-funded — we don’t claim otherwise. Worth exploring: employer sponsorship, co-op supports and credit-union education loans. The grants the cert unlocks afterwards are a different, bigger story.
What happens if the provider can't finish my course?
Protection of Enrolled Learners (PEL) arrangements are in place for programmes of three months or more, so enrolled learners can complete their programme even in the unlikely event of provider failure.
Is Green Cert Ireland legit?
Green Cert Ireland is a programme brand of Forus Training (Rede Computer Training Ltd), a QQI-registered provider with over 800 Google reviews at 4.9★. The awards are QQI’s own — the same Level 5 and Level 6 awards Teagasc delivers — and the award codes are on everything we publish.
NOTHING LEFT BUT THE DOING
Fees & how to apply
ONE QUESTION LEFT?
Ask it the easy way.
Call, email or book the free consultation — awkward questions welcome.