Backhoe Operations
This course is designed for persons who wish to learn how to operate a backhoe.
Students will also learn how to:
- perform preventative maintenance on the equipment
change attachments
replace defective hoses
load materials
clear sites
grade and backfill materials
clean equipment
*Please note that applicants must be licensed drivers 18 years or older to be eligible to participate in this course.
*Safety boots and a reflector vest are required.
*Students are responsible for paying their own permit and licensing fees.
We invite you to use our new Online Application Portal to submit your application to the Barbados Vocational Training Board.
Simply click below and select Barbados Vocational Training Board as your target institution. Then complete the Sign Up form and Submit.
NOTE: Please use a valid email address you can access as you will be required to validate the email address before continuing with the application.
Latest Course Information
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Jan 31, 2026
Duration:12 weeks
Day(s):Saturday
Time:900 a.m. -12:00 p.m.
Tutor:Mr. Richard Harris
Course Fee:$595.00
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few FAQs pertaining to this programme or course:
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- What do I receive at the end of the Apprenticeship programme?
You will receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship. Note that in order to receive certification persons must have completed both the practical and theoretical aspects of their training programme. Certification is based on attendance, the completion of the skills, tasks and competencies listed in the scheme of training and the submission of relevant records from the employer and the approved academic institution.
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- What is the duration of the programmes?
Each programme runs one evening a week for 12 weeks.
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- What is the Admissions Policy for Skills Training programmes?
Applicants must be at least sixteen (16) years and should have completed nine (9) years of formal education to be accepted on the BVTB Skills Training Programme, except for the Bar and Restaurant Services and vehicle operations courses. Applicants must be eighteen (18) years or older to be eligible to apply for these courses. This stipulation is in accordance with Section 57 of the Liquor Licence Act of Barbados for the Bar and Restaurant Services course. The Skills Training Programme is free to all Barbadian nationals. Non-nationals are required to pay a course fee.
Training Centres
This course is held at the following training centre(s):
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C. Lomer Alleyne Skills Training Centre
The CLA centre is where most of the Board’s Evening programmes are held. It is known for its Agricultural and Engineering programmes. CLA is the BVTB’s largest centre and it continues to be expanded.
Testimonials
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Thanks to the Skills Training and the Barbados Vocational Training Board, I have acquired the skills to earn an income both in a company and on my own. If you are going to work for someone – choose your own boss – and if you are going to work for yourself, prepare to work hard, long hours.
Brian Murrell
Electrician
Advanced Electrical Services Inc.


