Project Description

Industry: Rural/Outdoor
Partner Programme: Rural Skills Scotland/ Lantra  
Activity Type: Work Inspiration & Preparation
Businesses involved: Rural Skills Scotland Ltd 
School: Beath High School 

Beath High School partnered with Rural Skills Scotland Ltd to raise awareness of outdoor career opportunities and help students build practical skills in the land-based sector. This three-day taster course aimed to introduce students to various outdoor careers, providing hands-on experience in estate management, landscaping, and horticulture. 

The collaboration was designed for students engaged in school and interested in outdoor careers. After interviewing 10 students, six were selected based on their personal statements and interest in the program. The goal was to provide practical experience, build teamwork, and inspire students to pursue careers in outdoor industries. 

Partners Involved 

The project was led by Rural Skills Scotland Ltd and supported by Lantra, which provided career information and case studies of professionals in the land-based sector. Lochore Meadows Country Park served as the venue for practical activities, and the project engaged local stakeholders.

 

Course Activities & Experience 

Over three days, students participated in hands-on tasks at Lochore Meadows Country Park: 

Day 1: 

Safety briefing, introduction to tools and equipment, and learning about estate maintenance, soft landscaping, and workplace responsibilities. 

Day 2: 

Gardening, soil and composting, planting techniques, and tree planting, with insights into horticulture and agriculture. 

Day 3: 

Estate skills, tool use, and grounds maintenance. Students worked on a project within the park, including fence construction and post work. 

Students also visited a local golf course to learn about greenkeeping and maintenance tasks. They received career information from Lantra, highlighting opportunities in the land-based sector. 

Feedback 

The feedback from students and staff was highly positive. Students enjoyed working outdoors and felt proud of their contributions. 

Elaine Philip, Pupil Support Assistant, said, “It was amazing to see the engagement the students had. They loved working with Darren and were proud of their achievements in upgrading areas of the park.” 

Aiden, S3, shared, “I enjoyed being outside and working as a team to complete different challenges. My favourite part was building the path that will be used by hundreds of people daily!” 

Quinn, S5, said, “I want to pursue a career in this area, and this experience opened my eyes to the various career opportunities in the land-based sector.” 

The success of the course has sparked further interest in outdoor careers. Beath High School is exploring additional partnerships with Dunfermline Glen and other local organisations to offer more hands-on opportunities for students. 

 This collaboration has proven to be a valuable introduction to outdoor careers, equipping students with practical skills and inspiring future career aspirations in the land-based sector.