Rural Skills

Modern Apprenticeship

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What's Rural Skills like?

Whether you’re a keen farmer or a passionate conservationist, there’s a career opportunity for you in the rural skills sector in Scotland. The sector includes:

What's the qualification?

You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship in Rural Skills at SCQF Level 5, 6 or 7. 

> SCQF qualification levels explained

Your qualification includes:

SCQF Level 5

  • Rural Skills - Environmental Conservation at SCQF Level 5

  • Rural Skills - Estate Maintenance at SCQF Level 5

SCQF Level 6

  • Rural Skills at SCQF Level 6

SCQF Level 7

  • Rural Skills at SCQF Level 7

SCQF qualification levels explained

What will I learn?

During your apprenticeship, you'll learn how to:   

  • survey environmental health and conditions

  • respond to environmental threats such as floods and fires

  • maintain and repair equipment and machinery

  • protect and conserve natural habitats

  • construct footpaths, boundaries and access points 

  • promote public conversation about the environment

You will also develop a base of core skills including:   

  • numeracy

  • teamwork

  • problem-solving 

  • communication 

  • information technology (IT) skills

These skills are highly transferable and have practical applications in manufacturing, construction and many other related sectors. 

Where could it take me?

There are many career and educational pathways available to you after this apprenticeship. Study for further qualifications or start a new job. 

Further education: When you complete the Rural Skills Modern Apprenticeship you can do additional study at a higher level. You could study Higher Education subjects such as Environmental Science, Ecology and Rural Land Management to further develop your skills. 

Straight to work: Use your practical skills developed through the Rural Skills Modern Apprenticeship to begin work immediately in a relevant role. You could move into roles such as:  

  • ranger

  • conservationist

  • estate supervisor

  • environmental management officer

  • wildlife manager

  • farmer

  • forest manager

Entry requirements

There are no qualification requirements to apply for this modern apprenticeship. However, an enthusiasm for learning is highly valued by potential employers. Providing evidence of previous practical experience in rural skills is also beneficial.

How does it work?

You’ll learn in a real-world environment and earn a wage. You’ll also study with a college or another learning provider.

How long will it take?

This Modern Apprenticeship will take 12 to 18 months to complete.

How to apply

Use the 'Find vacancies near you' search at the end of this page to look for vacancies, then you can apply online.

You'll apply on Apprenticeships.scot or the company’s own website – there are details on the vacancy advert.

Find vacancies near you