Winners of last year's ALBAS awards.
Photo: Lantra.
Environmental training body Lantra Scotland is seeking nomations for its 2025 ALBAS awards (Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills), which highlight the talents of people and organisations involved in the land-based and aquaculture sector.
"Designed to celebrate the achievements of individuals, schools, businesses and partnerships, the awards recognise successful trainees of all ages and encourage employers to invest in the next generation of talent, while promoting the many rewarding careers available," Lantra announced in a press release.
Industry categories include animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering, veterinary nursing, and trees and timber.
“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 Dr Liz Barron-Majerik, Scotland Director for Lantra.
“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. 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," Barron-Majerik said.
Once the nominations are received, a shortlist will be decided by an independent panel of employers and industry representatives, Lantra said, with shortlisted entrants invited to an interview.
"They are looking for knowledge of industry, passion for the sector, future plans and ambitions and learning journeys, with each of these factors having the same importance. It's what you put in the nomination form that determines whether you will be invited for interview, so it's worth spending time on your application," Barron-Majerik explained.
In addition to prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, the ALBAS also include awards for Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, Research Project, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), Mentor award, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.
Nominations are now open until Monday 2 December. Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire, on Thursday 6 March 2025.