Dairy skills for Scotland

An innovative project has been launched in Dumfries & Galloway in Scotland to help young people into work while addressing skills shortages within the local dairy sector. The ODairy Skills Initiative¹ is a partnership involving Scotland¹s Rural College (SRUC) NFU Scotland, Lantra, Dumfries & Galloway Employment TAP and Skills Development Scotland. It offers school leavers with no previous farm experience 12 week placements on local dairy farms, at no cost to the host farmers.

Trainees will get involved in the wide range of practical work involved in running a busy dairy farm. On successful completion of their placement they will achieve a certificate of work readiness and references to help them move into employment. There may also be opportunities for progression to an agricultural modern apprenticeship.

Host farmers will have the benefit of working with a young trainee, while the wider local dairy sector will benefit from an increase in ‘work ready’ individuals with references.

SRUC’s work-based learning manager Brian Williams explains: “We’re seeking males and females of school leaving age and the only prerequisite is that they are enthusiastic about becoming involved in dairy farming. They certainly won¹t be just stuck behind a brush during their placements ­ dairy farming is becoming increasingly technical nowadays and trainees will have the chance to get involved in a wide range of practical tasks, helping them build their confidence and gain the skills employers are looking for.”

Local dairy farmers and schools have been approached about the partnership and the Skills Development Scotland’s Employability Fund is supporting 40 placements to begin this September. Further placement will be available in early 2015. The project is also being supported by the Scottish Dairy Hub, which works to support Scottish dairy farmers.