Proficiency testing in agriculture

The development and organisation of proficiency testing in agriculture in England and Wales is described. The National Proficiency Tests Council, which was established as an independent examining body in 1971, is responsible for administering the proficiency testing scheme at a national level. On passing a category based proficiency test an agricultural worker may apply for a craftsman's certificate and is then entitled to a wages premium under the Agricultural Wages Board's Wages Structure Scheme. The development and format of a series of new category based tests for livestock production, which were introduced in January 1976, is outlined.