Subsidised Training Courses
Providing members with access to high quality training opportunities at subsidised ratesExplore our Latest Training Opportunities
One of the best reasons for joining IFA Countryside is access to subsidised training. Farm Business Skillnet is the training division of IFA, providing training and upskilling to our members. Through Skillnet funding, we can provide various courses subsidised by as much as 40%.
We know that our our countryside community have very specific training and certification requirements and we make sure that we facilitate only the highest standard courses.
Firearm Proficiency: Safe Handling and Usage Course – New for 2024!
Empower Your Skills, Embrace Safety
Welcome to a new era of firearm safety and proficiency. IFA Countryside in association with Harbour House Sports Club, is proud to present our exclusive Firearm Proficiency Course – the most comprehensive of its kind in Ireland.
Our specialised course is meticulously designed with you in mind – whether you’re applying for a new firearm license, looking to enhance existing skills, or a professional involved in firearm regulation seeking hands-on experience.
Why Choose Our Course?
- Expertly Crafted Curriculum: Learn the essentials and beyond as we cover Rifles, Pistols, and Shotguns in one all-encompassing course.
- Hands-On Experience: Immerse yourself in practical proficiency with guidance from seasoned instructors renowned for their expertise.
- Continuous Learning: Designed for existing license holders to refine and strengthen their foundation, fostering a culture of lifelong competency.
- Informed Legislation Insight: Ideal for professionals engaged in firearm legislation. Gain in-depth knowledge to make informed decisions in regulation and policy.
- Community & Safety: Join an ever-growing community of safety-conscious, responsible firearm users committed to personal and community well-being.
- Certification of Completion: Successfully complete our course and receive a certification of completion.
Your Pathway to Mastery
Our course isn’t just about learning to shoot; it’s about mastering the discipline of firearm handling with a focus on safety and responsibility. Subsidised by Farm Business Skillnets, we offer this unparalleled training at an exceptional value.
Embark on your journey towards becoming a confident, competent firearm user. Boost your knowledge, skills, and understanding where it matters most.
Join us at Harbour House Sports Club, Lougharbour, Athy, Co Kildare, for an experience that goes beyond the basics. For details, costs, and course schedules, complete the form below.
Take Aim at Excellence. Secure your spot in our next Firearm Proficiency Course today.
Firearm Proficiency Course Enquiry Form
If you are interested in this course, please complete the expression of interest form.
Education & Training in Countryside Pursuits
At IFA Countryside, we recognise that education and training are essential to maintaining the highest standards in countryside pursuits. Whether it’s firearm safety, responsible hunting, or practical field skills, proper training ensures that participants develop confidence, competence, and respect for best practices. Our courses are designed to equip members with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to engage in their activities safely, ethically, and effectively—preserving traditions while upholding modern safety and environmental standards.
These subsidised training courses are an exclusive benefit of IFA Countryside membership. To take part, you must be a member. If you’re not already, you can join here to access these and other membership benefits.
The next course takes place on Saturday 3rd May 2025 with the corresponding range test on Saturday 10th May. Members can book here.
To make a course enquiry, please use the form below.
IFA Course Enquiry Form
Safe Handling of Wild Game Meat Course
This Course when successfully completed will allow the trained hunter to certify game carcasses fit to enter Approved Game Handling Establishments as required by Regulation (EC) 853/2004.
This course is run throughout the year. It is organised by the NARGC ; a LANTRA accredited body and is funded with the support of Farm Business Skillnet. The Course is also approved by The Food Safety Authority of Ireland. The cost of the course (€175) includes a manual which will be posted to you, Tea/Coffee and dinner. Members are notified of upcoming courses through our monthly E-newsletter.
The next course will take place on Saturday 27th April 2024. Members can book here.
Safe Handling of Wild Game Meat Enquiry Form
Training Gallery
Congratulations to all our recent graduates
