A Cooke Aquaculture Scotland seawater assistant has been shortlisted as a finalist in Lantra Scotland’s annual Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills (ALBAS).
Stuart Lavendar has been nominated for the Learner of the Year category after an encouraging start to his Cooke career which saw him complete his Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ) Level 2 in Aquaculture at UHI Shetland (University of the Highlands and Islands) while working at one of our Yell-based sites.
The ALBAS recognise and celebrate the achievements of trainees in Scotland’s rural sector, encourage employers to invest in the next generation of talent, and promote the many rewarding careers available.
Stuart, of Mossbank, Shetland, said he was delighted to be heading to the awards ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel, on 7 March 2024.
He commented: “It’s good to be recognised for the work and effort you have put in and it also motivates you towards doing your next level of the SVQs.
“I’d like to thank Cooke for putting me through my qualifications.
“Doing my SVQ level 2 and 3 has given me the knowledge and understanding. It’s improving and pushing me forward in my career in aquaculture.”
Stuart’s role involves maintaining fish welfare through feeding and health checks, as well as getting sites ready and keeping them clean.
And since starting his role with Cooke in 2020, Stuart has completed all his training to help him gain his Advanced Powerboat qualification. He has further completed Lantra tickets including: Sea Crane, Capstan, Slinger Signaller and Forklift training.
