The sought-after award goes to a Modern Apprentice or learner who has excelled during their training, demonstrating an aptitude for hard work, high levels of skill and a dedication to their chosen profession.
Now in its 13th year, Lantra's Land-based and Aquaculture Learner of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of Scotland's rural and urban learners, as well as encouraging employers to invest in training and skills development to ensure the industry is supplied with the very best talent. Last year's ceremony was the biggest in the event's history.
Lantra also welcomes submissions from those involved in other landbased sectors including agriculture and arboriculture, and is seeking additional nominations for Schools Learner of the Year, the Rural and Urban Secondary Schools Award and the Higher Education Award.
Kevin Patrick, director of Lantra Scotland, said: "Scotland's land-based, aquaculture and environmental conservation industries offer an incredibly diverse and rewarding range of career opportunities. Helping to promote those opportunities, and ultimately raising the quality of new entrants through effective learning and skills development, are key activities for Lantra.
"The awards celebrate the hard work and achievements of the country's top learners, their employers and training providers. We are proud to support those achievements, and really would encourage all land-based and aquaculture employers and training providers to consider nominating their learners for an award."
Closing date for the nominations is 20 November.
The Jean's Jam Award will also be making a return next year. Donated by training instructor Elspeth Watson in memory of her friend Jean Costello, the award recognises the most inspiring mentor for the land-based and aquaculture learner of the year finalists.
Lantra relies on support from across the sector to help fund the awards. Organisations interested in getting involved in next year's awards should contact Lantra as soon as possible.
