Contractor Training

Objective 2

Status
In Progress

This programme seeks to address the shortage in groundworks operatives (contractors & public sector) who are skilled, confident and experienced in undertaking habitat management, with the end goal of climate adaptation or mitigation.

2C_Black Devon Socials Post Feb 2025.jpg — The first of our contractor training sessions took place at RSPB Black Devon Wetlands. Participants learned about the work that has taken place at the reserve to ensure valuable habitat for nature and biodiversity.

The success of Scotland's response to climate change will depend on how land and habitats are managed - in terms of adapting to impacts and achieving net zero.

However, recent research by NatureScot has found that the workforce needed to implement nature-based solutions is currently insufficient in number, skills, and training. This is also reflected in real-life experience of land managers within the Inner Forth, when they have to procure contractors for work at key habitats, and have challenges finding suitable service providers with experience.

Tackling these 'skills gaps' will be key to realising the opportunities and co-benefits that can come from adapting to climate change. This activity pilots a way to address this gap by offering a free practical skills training programme run on our behalf by TCV Scotland.

The open events tackled the topics of wetland restoration, woodland and fen management and urban greenspace improvements. The programme will continue in 2026 with more practical, onsite training - as well as a series of short toolbox talks.

We have finished delivery of the open group events for now, but activity will continue with organisations being invited to take part in tailored, on site training and toolbox talk sessions.

Toby Wilson, Senior Conservation Officer for RSPB Scotland, leads the group in a training session about Black Devon Wetlands recent habitat works.

Blue skies at Black Devon Wetlands, for the first of our Contractor Training sessions.

Izzie Curnock from Green Action Trust leading our Rannoch Park session for contractors.

A great turnout at Rannoch Park to learn about the works we carried out in partnership with Falkirk Council and Green Action Trust.

Get Involved

If you or your staff would like to take part in this training, please contact James.Stead@rspb.org.uk

Project Location

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