Pupils develop rural skills first hand

The Perth & Kinross branch of the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) are working closely with Breadalbane Academy’s Rural Skills pupils and teacher Mr Woodrow to bring their learning to life on a working farm.

Sandy Thomson from West Park Farm, Aberfeldy (RHET volunteer and long-standing supporter of the Rural Skills Programme) welcomed pupils to the farm for the first of their weekly visits on Tuesday 31^st October. 

They started their Rural Skills on-farm work by assessing the potential risks on the farm and deciding what they should do if an emergency occurred.  They learned about the care of cattle at West Park and were also lucky enough to see a newly born calf.

Sandy recently spoke at a Careers Event highlighting the benefits of a rewarding career in Scotland’s Land-based and Aquaculture Sectors. The Careers event was organised by Lantra Scotland and supported by RHET.  Held on Friday 27^th October at Battleby industry representatives spoke passionately about their positive experiences within the Land-based industries.

RHET Project Co-ordinator Alix Ritchie said “The Rural Skills course is an excellent opportunity to encourage pupils to get out to the working countryside and see first-hand the skills required and opportunities available.  RHET endeavour to work with Lantra Scotland and educators to ensure that land based careers aren’t overlooked but are seen as a positive and rewarding career opportunity.”