Are you aged 16-25 and live in Highland Perthshire?
Thinking about a land-based career but not sure where to start?
Why not have a look at our free Rural Skills Traineeship which is open for applications now? The next course starts on March 19th 2025 and runs for 30 weeks every Wednesday and some Thursdays.
Based at Dùn Coillich Community Land outside Aberfeldy, the course offers trainees chance to get hands-on training and industry-recognised vocational qualifications, all tailored to opening up opportunities in land-based careers.
You’ll learn everything from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) driving to chainsaw handling, dry stone walling to ropes training – and a huge amount in between. And thanks to support from Perth and Kinross Council, SSE and The Gannochy Trust, it’s all completely free!
Previous trainees have found work in sectors such as forestry and farming, gamekeeping and conservation – and they’ve had a lot of fun along the way.
“We aim to create a supportive, friendly environment where trainees are given chance to explore their individual strengths and interests,” said Heather Hamilton, Project Officer.
“As well as the practical rural skills training we also offer one-to-one support to help them achieve their personal goals, as well as additional employability skills such as team work, leadership and time keeping.
“We’ve seen so many trainees increase in confidence and life skills during their time with us, whatever their background,” she added. “It’s really rewarding to see them go on to the next stage in their lives having gained so much in a short space of time!
Interested? Know someone who might be? Fill in an application form here, call Heather on 07849 268411 to talk it through, or drop her an email at projectofficer@hpclt.org.
Deadline for the 2025 intake is March 5th.
