COUNTRYSIDE management pupils were invited to find out more about their trade in another country.

Youngsters from sixth form at Milton Abbey School visited estates, farms and land-based industries in southern Germany after an invitation from the Duke and Duchess Friedrich von Württemberg.

Head of countryside management at the school Elisabeth Carr said: “Seeing how the land is managed from an agricultural and forestry perspective in a different country was really valuable, as was gaining an in-depth look at large estate management.

“It enabled pupils to gain an experience of alternative land-based activities and make comparisons with how things are done in this country, an area we will study in more detail through project work.”

The pupils also visited a nature reserve, an Alpine wildlife park, museums and Baroque churches to find out more about the local history.

The school offers BTEC countryside management courses at subsidiary diploma, diploma and extended diploma levels.

Head of vocational studies Tony Stroud said: “These courses are suited to people who have a passion for the countryside for a qualification with practical techniques, academic knowledge and theoretical skills.”