Survey seeks feedback on Scotland’s land use apprenticeships

The views of employers of all sizes across Scotland’s land use sector, covering occupations within agriculture, horticulture, trees and timber, game and wildlife, and land and nature are needed to support the development of apprenticeships.

Land use apprenticeships are being reviewed and refreshed by Skills Development Scotland to ensure skills and qualifications are both fit for purpose and future-proof.

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is calling on anyone with an interest in apprenticeships and skills in the sector to take part in a survey, choosing any or all of the relevant fields.

BASC has worked closely with SDS on the framework development, with particular focus on shaping the game and wildlife apprenticeship.

Curtis Mossop, BASC’s head of education and outreach, said: “Apprenticeships provide young people with a fantastic opportunity to undertake vocational training while gaining invaluable hands-on experience. BASC is committed to ensuring these routes are suitable for students, their employers and the sector’s skills requirements of the future.

“Maintaining the iconic cultural identity of a highland keeper while also acknowledging the diversity of wildlife management roles in Scotland has been at the forefront of the development work. It is essential for those wishing to utilise apprenticeships to respond to the consultation and help shape the future of young people in Scotland.”

Rod Sanderson, chair of the land use apprenticeship technical expert group, said: “BASC has been involved in shaping the game and wildlife apprenticeship within the land and nature area and we are thankful for their support. I would encourage those working within this area to get involved and have their say to ensure the apprenticeship meets their needs.”

The survey is live until 21 July and can be found here.