Next Generation
Grow, Learn & Thrive with FAS Support for New Entrants
Starting a farming or crofting business is exciting, but it also comes with a steep learning curve. As a new entrant, you may experience a range of challenges, from understanding your land and resources to navigating business planning, finance, regulations, and the day‑to‑day realities of running an agricultural enterprise. Building confidence, gaining experience and making sound decisions in those early years can be…
Unsure about Mentoring? Hear from Those Who’ve Benefitted
Starting out in farming or crofting can feel overwhelming, but support is available to help you build confidence and make informed decisions. Through FAS new entrants can receive practical, tailored guidance to help you succeed. Not sure how you can benefit from the support? Here’s what others who’ve taken up the support have to say:…
Autumn Insights for New Entrants to Farming
If you’re a new entrant to crop farming, November is an ideal time to observe soil preparation techniques for the upcoming growing season. Farm vehicles are actively working the land, and winter wheat drilling may still be underway. For those new to livestock farming, most cattle intended for overwintering will now be housed indoors and…
Access the Highly Rated Government-Funded Mentoring Programme
If you’ve launched or taken charge of a farming or crofting enterprise within the last five years, the Farm Advisory Service offers up to four days of fully funded, one-to-one mentoring designed to help you succeed. Working with an experienced mentor gives you access to practical insights, tailored advice, and industry knowledge that can make…
Mentoring in Autumn
As autumn sets in over Scotland, farming and crofting activity shifts in preparation for the colder months, Calving begins, machinery is out working the land to prepare soil for next year’s crops, and herbicide applications may be underway on cereal fields. This season offers a chance to pause and plan. For new farmers and crofters,…
What New Entrants are Saying About the FAS Mentoring Grant
Have you started or taken over a farming or crofting enterprise within the past five years? You may be eligible for fully funded mentoring through the Farm Advisory Service. This programme offers up to four days of tailored support from an experienced mentor whose expertise aligns with your business goals. Mentors located throughout Scotland can…
Land-Based Pre-Apprenticeship Scheme
Are you 16 to 21 years old and seeking employment opportunities in Scotland’s land-based sector? If so, the land-based pre-apprenticeship scheme could be for you. The scheme has recently been expanded to take on 400 participants across the catchment of Ringlink Scotland, Tarff Valley and Borders Machinery Ring. No qualifications are required, and applicants can…
Mentoring for Next Generation Farmers & Crofters
The Farm Advisory Service offers up to four days of free mentoring from experienced mentors for new entrants who have become head of a farming business within the last five years and hold a Business Reference Number (BRN). Mentors can assist with a wide range of skills required by next generation farmers and crofters in…
Next Generation Practical Training Fund
Following a successful pilot in Autumn 2023, the Next Generation Practical Training Fund has reopened and will continue until March 2027. Anyone who has entered the agricultural industry within the last five years or recently completed formal sector-related education can apply for 100% funding for up to £500 per course. There is no upper age…
Scottish Land Matching Service (SLMS)
About SLMS The Scottish Land Matching Service (SLMS) provides independent advice and facilitation services to those seeking or offering opportunities in farming and crofting. They are a government-funded service and free at the point of use. SLMS was established in September 2019 against the background of an ageing demographic in farming and crofting, and a…