FLS welcomes latest apprentices into full time posts

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has celebrated its latest cohort of 11 apprentices moving into full time positions.

This brings the total of apprentices taking up full time roles to 22 for this year.

Working at locations all over the country, the five women and 17 men have taken up roles ranging from mechanic, craftsperson and worksite supervisor to wildlife ranger, data analyst and Civil Engineering Supervisor.

Learning and Development Manager, Kirsty Russell, said:

“We’re proud to announce that 11 more Craftsperson apprentices have recently transitioned into permanent roles within FLS. This follows on from welcoming our previous group earlier in the year.

“This achievement reflects our commitment to developing talent and supporting career progression through high-quality apprenticeship programmes.”

Forestry is a key rural industry – contributing around £1.1 billion annually to Scotland’s economy while supporting biodiversity and helping to tackle climate change – and FLS is providing career opportunities to the next generation of foresters and related staff.

Lochgilphead based FLS Craftsperson Johnny Holmes highlighted how his training has set him up for a successful career in forestry:

“This apprenticeship has been life changing for me. Starting from zero forestry knowledge and practical skills, the program gave me countless opportunities to learn and develop these. Through internal training courses, college portfolio work, technical certification and full on-the-job experience I have been given the perfect foundation to build a career in forestry and have developed a real motivation and desire to pursue work within the industry and FLS.”

Liam Hunter, who will be taking up a worksite supervisor role based out of Dunkeld following the completion of his apprenticeship, said:

“The apprenticeship program gave me the confidence to get back into education; become part of an industry I love and have a clear goal for my future after years of uncertainty"

Contin based FLS Craftsperson Jamie Cox said:

“I’ve had a great time as an apprentice Craftsperson with FLS. I have learned lots, seen many interesting places and met so many interesting people. I have thoroughly enjoyed the whole process.”

Working out of Durris in Aberdeenshire, FLS Craftsperson Louis Marshall said:

“The apprenticeship has allowed me to develop my knowledge of forestry and the industry whilst developing and gaining certificates for practical skills.”

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland
3. Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot