A new matchmaking service has been launched to link farmers with would-be apprentices.
Lantra – the skills body for farming and land-based sectors – has launched a new scheme which aims to pair together jobs with job seekers. The scheme – MA Connections – is backed by NFU Scotland and the Scottish Government.
As well as hooking up employers with new employees, it will provide information about Modern Apprenticeships and careers in agriculture.
Modern Apprentices are paid a wage and learn through both on-the-job teaching and training towards gaining a Scottish vocational qualification.
Farm apprenticeship training in the north and north-east is available through SRUC, Orkney College UHI and Train Shetland.
Lantra Scotland’s director, Kevin Patrick, said: “Against the backdrop of an ageing workforce, MA Connections is designed to help improve the quality and impact of new entrants to a vibrant, diverse and increasingly technical agricultural industry in Scotland. Farmers will benefit from enthusiastic and committed new entrants, apprentices will benefit from the skills and experience of their employers, and both will benefit from the support and guidance of experienced training providers.”
Farm Minister Richard Lochhead praised the initiative and said Modern Apprenticeships were a key part of the government’s drive to support youth employment.
NFU Scotland vice-president Andrew McCornick said the scheme would give farmers an avenue to find young people to work with them and keep their businesses moving forward.