Developing a Joint Prospectus for Learning and Innovation in the Land-based Sector
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Register here“In the past we’ve worked separately, trying to address the same possible labour shortages and upskilling requirements – now we’re working in partnership.”
Andrew Johnson, Head of Sector for Rural Skills, Borders College
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and Borders College worked in partnership with regional stakeholders to respond to the needs of the natural economy. A joint land-based prospectus was launched in June 2023. It showcased the complete range of learning options and pathways at each level of study, including flexible short courses.
Building on this collaboration, SRUC and Borders College identified new areas for jointly delivered land-based provision. These include Agriculture; Countryside and Wildlife Management; Animal Care; and Vet Nursing.
A place-based innovation scheme was also developed as a catalyst for creative problem solving and upskilling in the region.
Project information
Aims and Objectives
The aim of this project was to create a cohesive and comprehensive educational and skills offering in the land-based sector to meet regional needs and enhance learner progression and employability.
Objectives:
- Ensure cohesion in the tertiary education and skills offering in land-based sector in the South of Scotland.
- Identify gaps in provision and develop plans for new course development.
- Develop a place-based innovation scheme to encourage upskilling and innovation in the region.
Key Working/Strategic Groups
Borders College/SRUC Working Group: This group’s responsibilities included mapping and documenting current educational provision in the land-based sector. It also identified gaps in subject areas, levels of provision, articulation, and progression.
Senior Leadership Teams: Senior leadership teams from SRUC and Borders College met regularly to oversee the strategic direction and progress of the collaboration.
Project steering group: The main focus of this group was to provide direction, establish opportunities and oversee progress. Membership included the Scottish Funding Council, South of Scotland Enterprise, senior managers from both institutions, and sector experts/senior staff from both institutions.
Outputs Delivered
Joint Prospectus: The new joint prospectus highlighted the range of learning opportunities available in the land-based sector, including flexible short courses.
Curriculum Enhancements and New Course Developments: The curriculum was enhanced across various areas including animal care, drone training, and countryside skills.
Partnership working: The agriculture teams at both Borders College and SRUC collaborated to offer combined delivery of agriculture courses to provide a broader offer to students from geographical challenging areas.
Strategic Statement of Intent as an output: In June 2023 SRUC and Borders college signed a strategic statement of intent for collaboration and joint work.
Project Insights
The tables below provide insights into the project. They highlight the context in which the project tested new ways of working, enhanced learner pathways, and improved regional skills planning.
SFC Strategic Plan 2022-27
Building a connected, agile, sustainable tertiary education and research system for Scotland.