Biodynamic Training

Apprentice Learning Diploma

Biodynamic Apprenticeship Learning
There is no better way of learning about biodynamic farming and gardening than out on a farm or in the garden alongside an experienced biodynamic practitioner.

For the last twenty years, the Biodynamic Agricultural Association has offered a practical two year apprentice training in biodynamic agriculture and horticulture. This takes place on well established biodynamic holdings around the country and is open to everyone aged 21 and over. (In exceptional circumstances younger candidates will also be considered) Apprentices usually live and work on the farm in exchange for board, lodging and training. Their practical tuition is supported by weekly tutorials and a programme of seminars and block courses. Apprentices undertake a project on a subject of their choice during their second year.

The objective of the course is to gain basic agricultural / horticultural skills, understand the principles and practice of biodynamic techniques and create a foundation for developing an independent understanding of the earth, life and human beings from a spiritual perspective.

A new milestone has now been reached in that from autumn 2010 students can work towards gaining a level 3 internationally recognised Diploma in Biodynamic Agriculture. The diploma is awarded by the Crossfields Institute and accredited by Edexcel. 

The Biodynamc Association is a member of the Crossfields Institute which provides an umbrella structure for learning organisations, educators and researchers working within further and higher education. Its particular focus is with those organisations seeking to develop a transparent, spiritual approach to learning and education.

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Distance Learning Programme

Biodynamic: Principles and Practice
The College Comes to You!

Our distance learning programme is for people who have a real interest in developing their knowledge and understanding of biodynamics in its anthroposophical context. Whether you are a farmer, grower or back yard gardener, if you want to learn about Biodynamics this course is for you!

The course consists of 11 modules which can be taken all at once or one-by-one. Each module costs £365. Every three months a module will be available on line– every module consists of a module reader, live online seminars, recorded short films and online tutorials with one of our teachers.

Students from all over the world can interact with each other through the online forum, forging a new network of biodynamic practitioners.

The Distance Learning course is aimed at people who are working in a land-based profession: farmers, growers, vineyard managers, smallholders, organic and biodynamic accreditation inspectors, as well as home and amateur gardeners.

A demonstration clip of the first lesson in the unit 'Farm Organism' and more on the structure of the training the following pages can be found here.


The full time and short courses in Biodynamic Agriculture and Horticulture are now part of  Emerson College. For more information please click here