Welcome to the world of ovine expertise and husbandry with our Statement of Attainment in Sheep Management. Whether you’re an aspiring shepherd, a seasoned farmer, or simply passionate about the care and welfare of these remarkable creatures, this program is your gateway to comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills in the management of sheep.

Sheep are vital contributors to agriculture, providing wool, meat, and other valuable resources. Proper management of these animals is essential to ensure their health, productivity, and overall well-being.

In this program, we will delve deep into the world of sheep, covering topics such as breed selection, nutrition, health care, shearing, and sustainable grazing practices. You will learn how to nurture healthy flocks, enhance their performance, and contribute to the sustainability of the sheep industry.

Whether you’re looking to start a career in sheep farming, enhance your existing knowledge, or simply have a profound appreciation for these gentle creatures, our Statement of Attainment in Sheep Management will empower you with the skills and insights needed to thrive in the world of ovine care and husbandry

Course Structure & Content:

Course Duration: 100 hours.

Lessons: The course comprises 10 lessons as detailed, below.

Introduction To Animal Foods
Terms and Definitions; Groups of Foods; Other Terms That Are Used; Food Processing Terms; Water.

Food Components – Carbohydrates and Fats
Carbohydrates; Carbohydrates as a Source Of Energy; Fats and Oils; Adipose Tissue Deposits in Animals; Fat Deposits in Different Animals.

Food Components – Proteins, Minerals, and Trace Elements
Composition of Proteins; The Build Up Of Proteins; Biological Value of Protein; Protein Content of Foods; The Function of Protein; Feeding Urea to Ruminants; Major Minerals; Trace Elements; Vitamins.

Evaluating Foods and Digestibility
Analysis of Feed Stuffs; Calculating Digestibility; Protein Value; Energy Value; Nutrient Value of Some Common Foods.

Classifying Foods Part, A
Cereals and Cereal By-Products; Brewing By-Products; Grasses, Legumes and Succulents; Lucerne; Sainfoin; Other Succulent Foods; Roughage, Hay, Silage and Dried Grass.

Classifying Foods Part B
Oil and Legume Seeds; Oil Seeds and Their Products; Legume Seeds.

Classifying Foods Part C
Fodder Trees and Animal Products; Fodder Trees and Shrubs; Animal Products.

Calculating Rations Part, A
The Object of Rationing; Nutritional Requirements of the Animal, calculating a Maintenance Ration; Cattle at Pasture; Working Out Rations for a Herd.

Calculating Rations Part B
Nutrient Requirements for a Dairy Cow; Working Out the Total Requirements; Feeding a Ration to Meet Nutrient Needs; The Dairy Ration.

Calculating Rations Part C
Ready Mix Feeds; Using Protein Contents; A Summary of Rationing; Further Considerations in Rationing.

The marketing of sheep and sheep products

• Wool sales
• Sale by private treaty
• The auction system
• Wool futures
• Industry regulatory and marketing authorities
• Lamb and mutton marketing: Paddock sale, Sale yard auction, Over-the-hook sale
• Electronic Marketing, Live Sheep exports, Forward price contracts
• Factors affecting the value of lamb or mutton: Carcass weight, Skin value, Payment basis (hot or cold weight) etc

• Collect information about different sheep breeds which are being farmed or could be successfully farmed in your region.
• Compare the different characteristics of sheep breeds in terms of appearance, hardiness, commercial potential.
• Select breeds for three different purposes, including wool production and meat production, in your locality.
• Inspect at least two sheep, ideally, from separate flocks, and determine their age by looking in their mouths.
• Define the following different sheep breeding terms: Oestrus, Gestation, Weaning, Flushing, Wet ewes, Teasers.
• Design a “breeding record form” which includes all necessary factors.
• List criteria to be used for selecting sheep for different purposes, including for replacement and for slaughter.
• Develop a standard form, which considers both meat and wool, to use for judging sheep.
• Talk to at least two experienced sheep farmers about “condition scoring” of sheep.
• Compare the differences in food required by different types of sheep, including: rams; breeding ewes at different stages of pregnancy; sheep being fattened for meat.
• Prepare a collection of ten pasture plant species from at least two different sheep properties and comment on the suitability of the pasture for sheep.
• Distinguish between the different categories of sheep health problems, including: viral, bacterial, metabolic, protozoal, poisoning, parasites.
• Describe how to perform different pest and disease control tasks, including: drenching, injecting, hoof trimming, docking.

A Statement of Attainment in Sheep Management can benefit a wide range of individuals and groups who are involved or interested in the care and management of sheep. Here are some specific groups of people who would benefit from such a qualification:

• Farmers and Ranchers: Farmers and ranchers who raise sheep for wool, meat, or other products will benefit from specialized knowledge in sheep management. This qualification can help them optimize flock health and productivity.
• Livestock Managers: Individuals responsible for overseeing the well-being and management of sheep on farms, ranches, or agricultural operations can gain valuable insights and skills to enhance their practices.
• Animal Science Students: Students pursuing studies in animal science, veterinary science, or related fields can use this qualification to gain practical experience and knowledge in sheep husbandry.
• Veterinary Professionals: Veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and animal health professionals can benefit from a background in sheep management to better diagnose and treat health issues in sheep.
• Shepherds and Herders: Individuals working as shepherds or herders, whether in traditional or modern settings, can improve their skills in sheep care, handling, and flock management.
• Livestock Extension Agents: Extension agents and agricultural educators can use their knowledge in sheep management to provide valuable guidance and support to local farmers and communities.
• Animal Welfare Organizations: Organizations and professionals focused on animal welfare and rescue may benefit from understanding sheep husbandry to ensure the well-being of rescued or at-risk sheep.
• Entrepreneurs and Agribusiness Owners: Individuals starting or managing businesses related to sheep farming, wool production, or other sheep-related products can use this qualification to develop and market their products effectively.
• Government Regulators: Regulators and policymakers in the agricultural and livestock industries can benefit from knowledge in sheep management to develop and enforce regulations related to animal welfare and industry standards.
• Hobby Farmers and Enthusiasts: Individuals who keep sheep as a hobby or out of personal interest can gain valuable knowledge to ensure the health and well-being of their animals.
• Educators and Trainers: Trainers and educators specializing in agricultural and livestock topics can use this qualification to enhance their curriculum and provide valuable training to others.

In summary, a Statement of Attainment in Sheep Management is a valuable qualification for anyone involved in the care, management, or study of sheep in various sectors, including agriculture, animal science, veterinary medicine, and animal welfare. It provides essential knowledge and skills to ensure the well-being and productivity of sheep herds.