Rural Skills
Modern Apprenticeship
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:
environmental management
travel and tourism
agriculture
renewable energy
Manage Scottish forests, fisheries and farms. Learn traditional rural skills that have been practised for centuries. Preserve landscapes, habitats and species for future generations.
This apprenticeship gives you the abilities to work in the sector and develop your knowledge of the countryside. You'll work with industry experts with years of experience in their craft. It'll help you focus your skills in the rural industries and develop essential tools for your future career.
You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship in Rural Skills at SCQF Level 5, 6 or 7.
> SCQF qualification levels explained
Your qualification includes:
Rural Skills - Environmental Conservation at SCQF Level 5
Rural Skills - Estate Maintenance at SCQF Level 5
Rural Skills at SCQF Level 6
Rural Skills at SCQF Level 7
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.
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.