Fife’s Our Bright Future project created a pathway into practical environmental management work for young people. The project was delivered through six core partners across four locations; Falkland Stewardship Trust (lead partner), The Ecology Centre in Kinghorn, Fife Employment Access Trust, Cambo Heritage Trust, Kingdom Housing Association, Rural Skills Scotland and supported by advisors from Scottish Forestry, Fife Council and Fife Voluntary Action.
The young people involved in the project have delivered improvements in woodland management, removal of invasive species, creation of bug hotels, tree planting and developed wildflower meadows to name but a few!
More than 300 young people from disadvantaged social and economic situations participated in the project.
60 young people participated in ‘Academy Placements’ whereby young people were engaged in targeted training and conservation activities to broaden skills and awareness of opportunities and what’s it’s like to work in the rural sector.
32 young people completed an apprenticeship in Trees and Timber, Horticulture or Rural Skills, Estate Maintenance.
Five young people went on to develop their own businesses and social enterprises. You can learn more about their experiences through these four short videos of Laura, Lola, Lyndon and Mickey’s experiences.
“The programme has been great I’ve definitely grown as a person and am more confident in my abilities as well as gaining industry recognised certificates that have helped me secure my new job”.
100% of the young people involved in the project have said that they feel more confident and more positive about themselves.
Millie and Kyle visited the Scottish Youth Parliament in December 2018, you can read about their reflections in this blog, learn more from Aaron about his visit to the Confor Woodland Show and read about Jess’ experience on the project.
