Core Training
This intense program is for those who have enough farm experience to know that a farming career is calling them. The application process is competitive, and the training requires a serious commitment on the part of those who accept a place in the class (8-12 students). Beginning in March, students work with staff to prepare the soil, organize materials and supplies, fine-tune the equipment and infrastructure, and finalize the crop and marketing plans for the year. They continue throughout the year, progressively learning more about the implementation and management of a growing season. This work evolves into a deeply participatory season of cultivation, seeding, transplanting, weeding, problem-solving, harvesting, distributing, research, and evaluating. Students are expected to participate fully in classroom sessions as well as field demonstrations, alongside regular fieldwork/learning. Successful completion of the program involves the creation of independent farm business plans and a presentation to the community.
Pre-requisites:
Must be 18 or older;
Able to perform physical labor for 8 hours a day, 5-7 days per week;
Available for the full 8.5 month program (each student is allowed one week off during the program, to be scheduled upon acceptance);
Competent in communication and teamwork
Prepared and willing to participate in regular check-ins and reflections, designed to deepen the learning experience
Able to accept direction and input from staff
Financially able to cover personal expenses during the program (the training program does not leave time/energy for even part-time work off the Farm)
One year of farm experience is strongly suggested
Current Covid vaccination, as well as current tetanus shot, required
Tuition
Tuition for 2024 will be $5000, with a $500 deposit due upon acceptance, and the remaining balance due by Feb. 15, 2024. Student assistance may be applied for after acceptance.
Housing
Housing to be arranged on site or in the South Whidbey community.