New ranger qualification developed by partnership
From February, West Highland College UHI is joining with Fort William-based Nevis Landscape Partnership to offer a new qualification in the great outdoors.
The course should prove attractive to students of all ages and backgrounds who have an interest in our countryside and a desire to contribute to conservation and provision for visitors.
The Partnership welcomed the NQ: Countryside Skills with Ranger Training, saying: ‘We are excited to embark on this new structure for our Trainee Volunteer Ranger Scheme, working in partnership with West Highland College UHI.
‘Building on the positive legacy of our previous ranger training programme, working with our partners the John Muir Trust, the Woodland Trust, and Jahama Estates, we are now adding valuable work experience.’
Underpinning the programme will be regular input from an experienced college lecturer, and upon successful completion, in addition to practical and theoretical knowledge, students will gain recognised industry awards, plus a National Qualification.
The course includes skills training, conservation and visitor management tasks led by the NLP volunteer coordinator and landowning partners, giving opportunity to contribute to positive action in the local area, and through engaging with potential employers, enhance their prospects.
Theoretical work covers habitat, an understanding of visitor provision, recreation and access issues, and consideration of land use, management objectives and possible conflicts of interest. Industry awards offer certification in specialist skills such as dry-stone walling, chainsaw operation, quad bike use, navigation, outdoor first aid and tree surveying.
Course leader Heather McNeill said: ‘Employers are looking for staff with an understanding of countryside issues, a range of skills, and the knowledge and confidence to work safely and effectively.’
The course, is based in Fort William, four days per week for 18 weeks, and starts in February. Interviews are in January, and applications are open now at www.whc.uhi. ac.uk/courses/nq-countrysideskills-with-ranger-training/ or call 01397 874000.