Winners of the 2025 ALBAS.
Photo: Lantra Scotland
Environmental training body Lantra Scotland has announced it is now inviting nominations for its 2026 ALBAS (Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills), which recognise the achievements of individuals, schools, businesses and partnerships involved in the land-based and aquaculture industries.
“Land-based and aquaculture industries make a big contribution to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas, so we’re delighted that we can recognise and celebrate the success of our top learners, employers, training providers and partners through the ALBAS,” said Director of Lantra Scotland, Dr Liz Barron-Majerik.
“The awards highlight the dedication and achievements of everyone involved and of course becoming a finalist can make a huge difference to people’s self-confidence and careers too," she added. “Our sector offers a huge range of training and employment opportunities, and we’re keen to highlight the benefits to employers of a well-trained and highly skilled workforce as well.”
Categories cover areas including animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering, veterinary nursing, and trees and timber.
In addition to the titles of Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there will be prizes for Pre-Apprentice of the Year, Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, and Research Project. Special awards include the Tam Tod Trophy for an outstanding young learner, The Carstairs Mentoring Award, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.
Once nominations are received, an independent panel of employers and industry representatives will decide which entrants are shortlisted for interview, based on knowledge of the industry, passion for the sector, future ambitions and learning journeys, with each factor carrying equal weight, Lantra said.
The deadline for Secondary Schools nominations is Monday 27 October 2025, while entries for all other categories must be submitted by Friday 28 November 2025. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday 5 March 2026. More information is available from the Lantra Scotland website.