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Join the next generation of biodynamic farmers in farming for the planet, for the animals, the people and the soil.
As a student in our Apprenticeship Program, you will learn the most important aspects of running a farm and how to work on a farm as independently as possible and according to biodynamic principles. The program is based on Anthroposophy.
The BINGN apprenticeship program is open to residents of the Nordic countries, EU and EES. The program begins in April and ends in December of the third year. Students have the possibility to take a total of 20 workdays of holiday during the first year, in the 2nd and 3rd year the students will come to an individual agreement with the farm they chose. Some previous experience in farming or gardening is preferable but not an absolute requirement. We strongly recommend visiting the farms for the first year of your education, Fokhol Gård or Alm Østre, before staring the education.
You will learn by working on selected farms and through contributor-led content and seminars across the Nordic region. On the farm you will acquire practical skills and a deeper understanding of the farm as a living organism. You will explore several topics to ensure a profound understanding of biodynamic agriculture and its role in society now and for the future.
The fee for the program is 40.000 NOK for the foundation year and 25.000 NOK per year for the subsequent two internship years.
Deadline for applications starting in April 2024: 15th of January 2024
Application FAQs
Where are the farms?
The first (foundation) year of the BINGN Apprenticeship Program takes place in Norway on two neighbouring farms, Fokhol Gård and Alm Østre, where the students live, work and learn together.
During the second and third year, students will find their own internship farms in any of the Nordic countries – Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland and will come together for seminars in different locations and countries throughout the year. During the apprenticeship program, students will visit around 60 farms, gathering a broad range of impressions and knowledge.
More information on BINGN partner farms can be found on the Network page.
How much does it cost?
The fee for the program is 40.000 NOK for the first (foundation) year and 25.000 NOK per year for the subsequent two years. Fees are payable at the beginning of each year.
Can I get financial support?
There are a number of ways to find funding support from your local community. We suggest you write a letter describing your wish to attend BINGN and how you feel it can be a positive next step in your life. Include a link to the website or a flyer. Some example recipients:
- Your school
- Teachers
- Friends
- Family
- Local charitable organisations
- Religious institutions (like Churches, Mosques, Temples, etc).
Try contacting a local youth worker, educational advisor or someone else with a good overview of organisations in your community.
Apply for grants and scholarships
There are probably many foundations, charities, scholarships, etc. in your country or region who can financially support your BINGN year. Ask someone in your community who may know where to find more information and contacts or try Google.
Read the requirements for each grant carefully before applying. It will help you write a better application.
BINGN is an independent education and does not receive state funding. As a BINGN student you are not eligible for state funding for the education.
I am only interested in gardening, do I have to work with animals?
Biodynamics is a holistic approach where animals play a crucial role, however our students can choose to focus on their main fields of interest.
What is the language, do I need to speak a Nordic language?
Our education is in English. In choosing your apprentice farm you will have to come to an agreement about the spoken language with the farmer.
Can I join the seminars if I am not doing an apprenticeship on a farm?
No, the practical aspect of the program is fundamental to the BINGN education.