Transferable skills in land-based and aquaculture sectors: review

Appendix 2: Project information sheet

Transferable skills in the land-based and aquaculture sectors

Scottish Government, Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services Division (RESAS)

What is this project about?

The Commission for the Land-based Learning reviewed learning in Scotland’s land-based and aquaculture sectors to provide independent, evidence-based advice to Scottish Ministers. The aim of the Commission’s work was to ensure the land-based learning system equips people with the skills and knowledge both they and the sector require, and that the workforce is sufficient.

In 2023, the Commission reported recommendations to Ministers based on their work^[57]. Recommendation 12 was to “undertake research which identifies key transferable skills required across different job roles within the sector”. This 12-week internship project will seek to address this research gap, as identifying transferable skills within the sector will help to create a more flexible workforce and lead to more opportunities for seasonal green employment.

How will information be gathered?

The research will draw on an evidence review of current literature on transferable skills in the land-based and aquaculture sectors, a content analysis of Lantra’s careers website, and interviews with key stakeholders in the sector. The interviews will take place online using Microsoft Teams. They will be recorded and transcribed using Teams automatic transcription software.

The interviews will involve a brief presentation of the evidence review and content analysis findings and a discussion about these. Participants will be asked to consider questions such as: What do you feel are the most transferable skills in the land-based and aquaculture sectors? Do you feel workers possess these skills or are there any skills gaps? What do you think are the benefits to the sector and to workers of improving transferable skills? Do you perceive any barriers to building workers’ transferable skills?

Why should I take part?

We are interested in hearing from representatives of skills organisations and key industries in the land-based and aquaculture sectors to allow us to fully understand transferable skills in the sector. We will document the findings in a report that will be published on the Scottish Government website.

Your participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time until the point we publish the research findings (expected to be March 2025). We do not anticipate any risks to you from your participation. You can refuse to answer any questions without giving any reason.