Quest is on for Aquaculture Learner of the Year

Nominations are now open for the awards programme that sets out to highlight excellent examples of learning and teaching in aquaculture and other farming sectors in Scotland.

The process for Lantra Scotland’s 2023 ALBAS, the Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills, has now started. Employers, colleges and schools, delivering learning in land-based and aquaculture, are being asked to nominate their top candidates.

Lantra is a not-for-profit organisation, that works to support the rural economy and enhance the natural environment through supporting skills development. Its work in Scotland is supported by the Scottish Government,

The ALBAS celebrate the achievements of individuals, organisations and partnerships, providing trainees of all ages with a springboard to succeed in their careers and encouraging businesses to invest in the next generation.

This year, industry categories cover agriculture, animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering and trees and timber.

As well as prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are also prizes for Higher Education, School Pupil and Secondary Schools, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), Jean’s Jam for inspirational tutor, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.

Dr Liz Barron-Majerik MBE MICFor, Scotland Director for Lantra, believes the awards highlight the contribution that land-based and aquaculture industries make to the Scottish economy and that there are many rewarding careers available to rural trainees.

She said: “With all the incredibly diverse and fulfilling careers on offer in the land-based and aquaculture industries, it’s clear the sector makes a significant contribution to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas.

“By recognising and celebrating the success of the country’s top learners, their employers and training providers, the ALBAS can highlight the hard work and achievements of everyone involved.

“Ultimately, we want to ensure that our industries are supplied with the very best talent, bridging skills and recruitment gaps to build a vibrant and successful economy.

“Inspirational learners from previous ALBAS awards are great ambassadors for our sector, and we’re very proud of the difference our awards can make to the self-confidence and careers of all our finalists.”

Although paper copies of the nomination form are available on request, Lantra Scotland is encouraging entries online.  Individuals are invited to nominate themselves, someone else, a school or a partnership at www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/how-nominate-person-school-or-project-our-albas