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Next Generation

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,…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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Man standing in field
Man standing in field

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…

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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…

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FAS Connect Next Generation Groups

In 2024, two pilot FAS Connect Next Generation groups were launched covering South & Central (spanning Scottish Borders to Isle of Bute and everywhere in between) and Kintyre peninsula. These groups meet between two and four times per year, usually in the evenings or weekends, over a two-year programme focussing on personal development and mentoring….

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Poultry Health for Beginners

As a keeper of poultry it is important to know the signs and symptoms of some common health issues, as well as how to prevent and treat pests and diseases that can impact on their health and welfare. Sourcing stock Sourcing high health stock from reputable breeders is critical in reducing the incidence of poor…

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Getting Started with an Animal Health & Welfare Plan

Animal health and welfare plans are already a fundamental part of many assurance schemes, such as QMS and Red Tractor, and organic certification or marketing contracts. However, as part of the Whole Farm Plan, all farmers or crofters who keep any number of cattle, sheep, goats, deer, alpacas, llamas, pigs, or over 350 poultry need…

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