Hartpury's drive to keep UK farmers in touch with the latest technological innovations and knowledge in the agriculture industry has taken another major step forward.

Devised by the Hartpury Agri-Tech Centre, the online Applied Agri-Tech professional short course provides an introduction to the fundamental knowledge areas linked to the use and function of the latest agricultural technologies.

The course, for which enrolment is free, has been designed to inform and engage with current and future agriculture professionals, including stakeholders in agri-tech, and offers flexible study to suit busy schedules.

The course content will introduce and cover important topics such as data management, connectivity, cybersecurity and its application to real world farming practice and challenges.

Ben Thompson, Agri-Tech Centre manager, said: "We're extremely excited to be launching this specially designed programme to help users and stakeholders of agri-tech to gain introductory knowledge and understanding, as we experience unprecedented technological change within the agriculture sector.

"The applied focus of the course means all topics and learning areas are linked to current practice and address the challenges within primary food production.

"From my conversations with industry, I'm aware that it can be difficult to find the right support and relevant knowledge when you're making your first few steps into agri-tech.

"This course will provide another important addition to the work of the Hartpury Agri-Tech Centre to support current and future agriculturalists in this area."