The David Doig Foundation is pleased to support for the first time Lucky Ewe (LE), a registered charity formed in response to a lack of services in terms of training for those with Additional Support Needs in Fife, and retired teachers formed the majority of Lucky Ewe’s founding trustees. They aim to provide alternative forms of education and training for those with additional support needs, particularly with a learning disability. Training and engagement is focused on animal husbandry and providing participation and learning about a farming environment. Tasks include practical animal handling and care, farming tasks, woodworking, craft skills, and elements of farm or business management work for those with more capability. Through these activities, they aim for interns to build fitness, strength, dexterity, teamwork, and self-confidence.
The David Doig Foundation grant will support a teaching and learning programme at a non-advanced level in Rural Skills. The programme will be available for 12 interns and will lead to a recognized qualification accredited by Scotland's Rural University College (SRUC).
On the course, interns will study and gain experience in animal husbandry, land management and environmental improvement. The practical learning opportunities will be offered at Bonnyton Farm and at Fleecefaulds Farm, both in Fife. Assessment takes place throughout, with learning outcomes met and evidenced as the course progresses. The project work (on researching careers in land-based and rural employment) will be carried out in a computer suite at Elmwood campus SRUC and via Zoom.
Working towards the Rural Skills qualification will bring a great additional opportunity for personal development and a boost to the future career prospects of LE's interns. They will learn individual skills, as well as how to operate as a group, supporting each other in a team to develop teamwork and communication skills. Their practical skills will be strengthened, and their conceptual understanding of types of employment in the countryside expanded. At the conclusion, each intern will have a valuable qualification showing colleges, apprenticeships, and future employers their ability and experience.
There is potential for very positive long-term outcomes from this work, with more interns moving into work and becoming more independent.
