Scottish ceremony sees increase in sponsorship for this years awards

Maureen Watt, Minister for Schools and Skills, will recognise top learners from Scotland’s environmental and land-based industries in an Awards Ceremony later this week (28 February).

This year’s Awards have seen an increase of over 400% in sponsorship funds, supporting the introduction of several new prizes, including industry specific prizes and a “Higher Education Learner of the Year” prize. learndirect scotland are this year’s major sponsor, with farmers, land managers and employers from the sector also supporting the awards

Lantra’s National Director for Scotland, Willie Fergusson, said: “The Awards not only recognise talented learners, they demonstrate the many exciting and diverse career opportunities within the land-based industries. There are first class training opportunities across Scotland and highly skilled jobs with real career progression on offer. It is vital for the future of these industries that we continue to attract high calibre new entrants of all ages.

“The demand for new prizes reflects the high standard of learners and committed employers that exist within our industries. This year we have seen nominations increase by an amazing 100%.”

Damien Yeates, Chief Executive of learndirect scotland, said: “We are delighted to be principal sponsor of the Lantra Awards ceremony that will recognise and celebrate the achievements of learners and employers within the land-based sector.

“At learndirect scotland we are constantly looking at ways in which we can assist employers with the critical task of developing their employees and empower individuals by facilitating access to learning. By working in partnership with their industry representatives, we can remain confident that the service we offer will meet the needs of the industry and ensure a skilled and competitive workforce throughout Scotland.”

The Awards Ceremony will be held at Dunblane Hydro on the 28th of February.