Search begins for Scottish aquaculture's best learner
Lantra opens six-week window for entries
Training organisation Lantra Scotland has opened a six-week nomination period for the 2027 ALBAS (Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills), including Aquaculture Learner of the Year.
There have been more than 500 ALBAS finalists since the charity launched the awards in 2003, and the event is now widely recognised as a high-profile platform for the next generation of talent in rural industries.
Former soldier Craig Findlay took home the Aquaculture Learner of the Year trophy this year, four years after joining beginning a new career in the sector with salmon producer Scottish Sea Farms.
Findlay, who is based in Strathcarron in the Highlands, completed a Diploma in Aquaculture through UHI Shetland’s Marine Science and Technology Department while working as a senior marine technician at Kishorn.
Runners-up
Another SSF emloyee, Finley Forwood, who has completed a Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture through UHI Shetland, was runner-up.
Billy Anderson, a site manager with salmon producer Bakkafrost Scotland who had been doing a Modern Apprenticeship Level 4 in Aquaculture with UHI Shetland, was runner-up in the Higher Education Award BSc category.
Gill Simpson, Scotland director for Lantra, said: “Land-based and environmental industries are key to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas, so it’s important that we recognise and celebrate the success of our top learners, employers, training providers and partners through the ALBAS.
“I’d really encourage employers, colleges, training providers and others across the sector to think about the people they work with who deserve recognition and put them forward for an award.
A confidence boost
“Being named as a finalist can make a huge difference to people’s self-confidence and careers, and the awards also highlight the benefits to employers of having a well-trained and skilled workforce.”
“Once nominations are all in, the independent judges decide who to shortlist for interview based on what’s in the application form and what nominators say in their reference. They want to see knowledge of and passion for the industry, along with learning journeys and future plans that people have, with each of these factors having the same importance.”
To make a nomination, visit the awards page on the Lantra website by the deadline of Monday, November 2.
