Borders College is helping people across the Scottish Borders take their first steps towards a rewarding career in the land-based sector through its Borders Land & Rural Skills Pathway.
Designed to equip participants with practical, industry-relevant skills, the programme has been developed in partnership with employers and industry experts to ensure learners gain the knowledge and experience needed in today’s job market.
Funded through the Scottish Borders Council Local Economic Partnership No One Left Behind (NOLB) initiative, the programme is open to Scottish Borders residents aged 16 to 67 who are experiencing barriers to employment. This includes individuals affected by mental health challenges, disabilities, child poverty and young parenthood.
As well as gaining valuable practical skills, learners benefit from one-to-one support, guidance and mentoring from experienced Borders College staff. The programme is designed to help participants build confidence, develop employability skills and explore the wide range of careers available within the land-based sector.
Running over seven weeks, participants attend the College’s Newtown St Boswells Campus one day a week, making it an ideal opportunity for those with caring responsibilities, part-time work or those returning gradually to structured learning.
The programme includes practical training in:
- Tractor Driving for Beginners
- All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Training
- Introduction to Welding
- Brushcutting, Strimming and Garden Machinery Maintenance
On completion, learners receive a Borders College Certificate of Attendance to enhance their CV, while also developing transferable skills including teamwork, communication and confidence.
There is a wealth of career opportunities available within Scotland’s land-based industries, and participants do not need to come from a farming background to succeed. Many successful professionals in the sector are first-generation entrants who have discovered new opportunities through training and hands-on experience.
Upcoming programmes are scheduled to begin in August, October and January.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Borders Land & Rural Skills Pathway or applying for a place can contact enquiries@borderscollege.ac.uk.
