N.N.A.T.A. stands for the North Northumberland Agricultural Training Association.

The Association was established in 1974 and began with 55 members. It has since expanded to over 100 members.

N.N.A.T.A.'s purpose is to provide affordable, local training for farmers, self-employed people and anyone involved in rural businesses. The training is arranged with hectic spells taken into consideration, therefore enabling people to attend.

WHO RUNS N.N.A.T.A.?

An elected Management Committee controls the Association, with a part-time Training Officer employed to co-ordinate training for the members.

WHAT DOES N.N.A.T.A. DO?

The services provided through the Training Officer are:-

Provision of training to meet legal requirements e.g. Spraying.
Practical skill courses e.g. Vermin Control and Dry Stone Dyking.
Management Courses e.g. Computer, HSE and DEFRA updates.
Practical training specifically tailored to the member's requirements, at a time to suit.

These courses are located within North Northumberland, usually on members' farms, therefore minimising travel time and maximising training time.

All instructors used have practical experience, technical knowledge and are proficient at lecturing.


THE COST OF N.N.A.T.A.

As the Association is self-supporting, members pay an annual subscription, which covers the administration costs and the hire of rooms for meetings and courses.

Programmes are sent out three times a year. These contain a list of pre-arranged courses which all members can book places on. However, please remember N.N.A.T.A. does also cater for individual member's needs.

Some courses and meetings are free, although if specialised instructors are necessary, charges will be made to cover the cost.

This leads to inexpensive training with most members finding the cost of joining N.N.A.T.A. can be recouped through the benefits of their first course.

We will send a current Course Programme and, if necessary, will arrange a visit to discuss the Association's activities and your training needs.


CURRENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Chairman:
Andrew Frater, Tyneley Farm, Chathill, Alnwick
Tel: 01665 579351
Vice Chairman:
Tom Comber, Elwick Farm, Belford
Committee:
David Armstrong, Murton Farm, Berwick on Tweed
Neil Maxwell, North Doddington, Wooler
Colin Martin, West Kirknewton, Wooler
Andrew Walton, Wandylaw, Chathill
John Renner, North Bellshill, Belford
Neil Mather, Haugh Head Farm, Wooler

Mike Butcher, Alnwick Farming Consultants

Andrew Reed, Ancroft