Lochview rural training based in the far north of Scotland

Established just over 3 years ago, in a rural location where opportunities for young people are limited, Lochview has recently been piloting an ‘Introduction to land-based Industry’, thanks to funding from CABWI.

“Our 8-week pilot was aimed at working with both local employers and young people in the area and trying to develop and match the desired needs of the beneficiaries. The programme, covered What roles are involved with land based sector, including a few visits to a large estate and a farm.

Week 2 of the programme focused on animal welfare and handling livestock and Week 3 nature, forestry and peatland restoration. Week 4 we covered heritage work drystone walling and all participants achieved a certificate in introduction to drystone walling. Week 5 covered fencing how to construct a secure livestock fence. Week 6 saw trainees progress and complete a 2-day ATV course in safe handling of a sit astride vehicle; Week 7 was machinery maintenance and Week 8 ended with all participants completing an emergency at work first aid certificate, followed by an awards lunch.

During the 8 weeks it was important that we highlighted the availability of local jobs and developed a pathway for networking for the young people. The final outcomes 8 started – 7 completed. Looking ahead, two are continuing on with us; one is going to be attending work experience in January with the potential of a job offer; one has been offered an apprenticeship with Forestry land Scotland starting September 2025; two are going to look for volunteering opportunities to gain more experience and one is going to be starting college to complete an National Certificate in Agriculture.

We have learned a huge amount from this pilot, including getting the marketing and communications right. The trainees were noticeably apprehensive at the outset but by the end of the programme everyone had become good friends and they were all exceptional at encouraging each other, especially when carrying out tasks that they thought they would not manage.

Due to the success of the programme, we would really like to continue to offer this on a rolling basis. We cannot thank CABWI enough for all the support they have given to Lochview Rural Training.”