Career Opportunities in Aquaculture Highlighted to Schools

School children throughout Scotland are to learn about the wealth of career opportunities in fish and shellfish farming.

A new partnership between West Highland College UHI, Barony College and the salmon, trout and shellfish sectors is to pilot a National Progression Award (NPA) in Aquaculture in secondary schools.

Starting in spring 2012, school children aged between 14 and 16 and high schools are being encouraged to register their interest for the new course now.

Schools in Kinlochbervie in Sutherland and Ardnamurchan in the Highlands are the first to sign up to offer the new award.

Entitled ACCESS to Aquaculture, the award will provide an insight into fish and shellfish farming, the importance of health and welfare, and the environmentally friendly farming methods used in today’s industry.

Pupils will also benefit from work experience on a fish or shellfish farm located near to their school.

Liz Paul, project manager for ACCESS to Aquaculture at West Highland College UHI, said: "The pilot project will give young people work experience in a dynamic sector with lots of potential.

"It will also give the children an entry level award that will help to secure an apprenticeship or access to college or university."

Martyn Haines, depute principal, Barony College, said: "We anticipate the pilot project will attract keen, career-minded young people at an ideal time, as the sector makes plans for further sustainable development.

"Promoting aquaculture as an attractive career opportunity and providing access to national qualifications are vital if the industry is to achieve its full potential."

Lynn MacFarlane, training and human resources officer at Marine Harvest Scotland, said: "We welcome the opportunity to work further with schools in the communities where our farms, hatcheries, freshwater and seawater sites are located as it will enable young people to gain a recognised qualification.

"Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. Our company is one of the largest, with operations in 21 different countries and 5000 employees. The young people participating in this award could be on their first steps towards a rewarding life-long career."

Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers ' Organisation (SSPO), the trade body for the salmon sector, said: "With the products derived from aquaculture in high global demand, now is a great time to consider a career in the sector.

"School pupils will gain an insight into the large number of varied opportunities, ranging from the likes of environmental science, engineering, fish biology, food technology, quality control and husbandry."

The project is funded by a European Fisheries Fund (EFF) grant which has been awarded by the Scottish Government with the pilot project supported by industry trade bodies the Scottish Salmon Producers ' Organisation, British Trout Association and the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers.

More aquaculture news from Scotland.

Interested in training and people development? Visit the Scotland Food & Drink Skills Academy.