Our Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme (FACTS), accredited by BASIS, is aimed at those looking to develop competence in providing fertiliser advice with due consideration for the environment.
The successful completion of this course is essential for a range of job roles within the agricultural industry. For instance, a number of farm assurance schemes, including the Red Tractor Farm Assurance Scheme, require farmers to receive crop nutrition advice from a FACTS qualified advisor.
Who is the course suitable for?
- agronomists, advisers or consultants, manufacturer representatives and farm managers involved in arable crop production and management as well as working on mixed farms
- those who wish to pass the BASIS FACTS examination leading to the Certificate of Competence in Fertiliser Advice
- those interested to undertake the BASIS Soil and Water Management course
- those who have qualified for the BASIS Professional Register and want to gain Continuing Professional Development points
What you’ll achieve at the end of the course
You will:
- gain a broad understanding of fertilisers and plant nutrition enabling you (once you have successfully completed the examination) to advise on nutrient management in a way which is technically, economically environmentally sound
- look in depth at fertilisers, including their use, transport, handling, application and legal requirements
You will receive a BASIS FACTS Certificate of Competence in Fertiliser Advice on successful completion of the course and examination.
BASIS is a charitable organisation established in 1978 by the pesticide industry, committed to raising professional standards across land management and food production with its industry-leading training.
Course content
- the soil in relation to plant nutrition
- organic nutrient sources
- the nature and properties of fertilisers
- crop nutrients in plants and the factors influencing nutrient management planning
- use of fertilisers on the main crop groups in the UK
- the transport, storage and handling of fertilisers
- application of fertilisers
- Code of Good Agricultural Practice, legal requirements and other requirements to protect the environment
For more detailed information about course content, please visit the BASIS website here.
How is the course delivered?
We offer the course face-to-face on our RAU campus at Cirencester, with the examination taking place online.
The course takes place over six days, with an additional two days for the examination. The examination consists of:
- 60 multiple choice questions (closed book)
- scenario focussed on producing effective Nutrient Management Plans (open book)
- viva examination with a BASIS Exam Chair and two independent examiners
About the course leader
The course is delivered by an independent BASIS Approved Trainer.
Are there any entry requirements?
The course assumes a basic level of agronomic knowledge so BASIS strongly recommends that you have two years of experience in on-farm agronomy.
Course cost
£1,500+VAT per person.
This includes tuition, lunch (whilst on campus) and the BASIS exam fee.
A 20% RAU student and Farm491 member discount is available to a limited number of students and members. Find out more about Farm491 membership here.
Stay with us
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds - we offer comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation at our Cirencester campus, with free on-site parking and sustainable catering using local suppliers. Find out more about our accommodation and book here.
Apply today
Book now on our online shop here.
Our next course is:
26 October – 27 October 2026; 9 November – 10 November 2026; 25 November 2026 and 30 November 2026 – course (in person), 9.00 am - 4.00 pm
8 – 9 December 2026 - examination (online)
If you have any queries, please get in touch via our continuing professional development enquiry form or call +44(0)1285 889850.
Bespoke course options
We understand that organisations have unique needs when it comes to continuing professional development.
We can:
- deliver this course specifically to your organisation
For more information, visit our Bespoke Continuing Professional Courses webpage here.
Ready to upskill your staff?
Please get in touch via our continuing professional development enquiry form or call +44(0)1285 889850 to discuss your bespoke continuing development course requirements with our CPD team.
Funding options
If you are looking at grants to cover the cost of attending our course, you may meet the requirements for Gloucestershire Disability Fund's well-being grants which can fund education and training for adults. For more information, visit the Gloucestershire Disability Fund website here.
Additionally, you may meet the requirements for funding from The Morley Agricultural Foundation. For more information, visit The Morley Agricultural Foundation website here.
Terms and conditions
Read our terms and conditions for short courses and CPD training here.
Please read these carefully before booking.