© Lantra
Nominations are now open for Lantra Scotland’s 2026 ALBAS (Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills), which highlight the talents of individuals and organisations in the sector.
The awards are designed to celebrate the achievements of individuals, schools, businesses and partnerships. They recognise successful trainees of all ages and encourage employers to invest in the next generation of talent, while promoting rewarding careers available in the land-based and aquaculture industries.
Categories in the ALBAS awards include animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering, vet nursing, and trees and timber.
“Land-based and aquaculture industries make a big contribution to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas, so we’re delighted that we can recognise and celebrate the success of our top learners, employers, training providers and partners through the ALBAS,” said Dr Liz Barron-Majerik MBE MICFor, scotland director for Lantra, in a press release.
In addition to prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are awards for Pre-Apprentice of the Year, Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, Research Project, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, The Carstairs Mentoring Award and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.
“Once we have all the nominations in, an independent panel of employers and industry representatives decides who to shortlist for interview based on what’s in the application form and what nominators say in their reference. They are looking for knowledge of industry, passion for the sector, future plans and ambitions and learning journeys, with each of these factors having the same importance,” added Barron-Majerik.
Secondary Schools nominations must be in by 27 October, with entries for all other categories closing on 28 November. The winners of the ALBAS will be announced at a prestigious ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel on 5 March 2026. The event will be hosted by MT O’Donnell, publisher of Scotland Grows horticulture magazine, writer and host of the Scotland Grows podcast.
