Rural skills duo celebrate success at the National ALBAS Awards

@BordersCollege students Felix Meister and Jack Forsyth are celebrating after a successful night at the ALBAS, Lantra Scotland’s Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills.

Felix Meister was announced as the winner in the Higher Education category. The Edinburgh-based student studied HNC Gamekeeping and now works with the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust as a Field Research Assistant.

He was credited by his lecturer Garry Dickson as having a good work ethic, excellent communication skills and a great attention to detail on his written projects, all recognised by the judging panel.

Jack Forsyth was announced as the runner-up in the Agriculture category. The East Linton-based student is currently studying SVQ Agriculture and has decided to progress his studies by moving onto the Level 6 Modern Apprenticeship course.

He was credited by his lecturer Gillian McFadyen as having a great attitude to work, learning quickly on the job and being dedicated to anything he works on.

Staff from Borders College, as well as family and friends, were delighted to learn of their awards at the ceremony, held at Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Dunblane Hydro.

Many Borders College students have tasted success at the ALBAS, including last year’s winner Alicja Blaszczyk who won in the categories for Agriculture, Modern apprentice of the Year, and the CARAS Award.

Borders College Curriculum Learning Manager for the Rural Skills department Andrew Johnson commented:

“Wow, what a night for Jack and Felix, and the College. I’m delighted for both students who deserve recognition for all the hard work that they have put in. I am sure the staff and students that work with them will join me in congratulating them.”

The ALBAS recognise the achievements of individuals, employer partnerships and training providers in land-based and aquaculture, as well as raising the profile of training and employment opportunities and highlighting the benefits to employers of a well-trained and highly skilled workforce.

Borders College would like to congratulate Jack and Felix on their awards, as well as the staff for their contribution to an overall successful night at the ceremony. Well done everyone!