If he is "way off steady" then don't take him. Take him out mooching road walking or what ever, just get him obedient and a bit biddable, then take him. He sould take about six good outings or more, at a geuss. Depending on your training capabilities. Then with what you have taught him, train him whilst ferreting
Ha! forgot abbout the ferret thing, that's the easy part
Feck me I am sensible some times