Nominations for Lantra Scotland’s 2025 ALBAS (Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills)—which showcase the talents of individuals and organisations involved in the land-based and aquaculture sectors—are now open.

These awards are designed to honour the accomplishments of individuals, schools, businesses, and partnerships. They acknowledge successful trainees of all ages while encouraging employers to invest in the next generation of talent and promoting the many fulfilling careers available in the sector.

The ALBAS categories span various industries, including animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering, veterinary nursing, and forestry.

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Alongside awards for Overall Winner, Runner-up, and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are recognitions for Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, Research Project, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), the Mentor Award, the Tam Tod Trophy for Outstanding Young Learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.

The ceremony will be hosted by Dr Jenna Ross OBE and Mike Duxbury from the Inclusive Farm.

Dr Liz Barron-Majerik MBE MICFor, Lantra Scotland director, explained:

“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.

“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.

“Once we have all the nominations in, an independent panel of employers and industry representatives decides who to shortlist for interview based on what’s in the application form and what nominators say in their reference. 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.”

The deadline for ALBAS entries is Monday, December 2, and winners will be revealed at a prestigious ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

To learn more about the ALBAS, call Lantra Scotland at 01738 310164, email scotland@lantra.co.uk, or visit www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/learner-year.