Bakkafrost Scotland apprentice shortlisted for prestigious awards

Aquaculture trainee Lewis Henderson has been shortlisted for the prestigious ALBAS – awards that celebrate the achievements of those starting their careers in rural industry.

Lewis, who is currently completing a Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture with Bakkafrost Scotland, is one of just five aquaculture trainees to be shortlisted for Lantra Scotland’s Awards for Land-Based and Aquaculture Skills.

Lewis, who hails from the Isle of Gigha, attributes the passion he has for fish farming to both his island roots and his family links. He said: “Having lived on an island all my life, I have always had a deep passion for the sea and aquaculture. As my father is also a fish farmer, my initial interest started there and has only grown over the years.”

The ALBAS play a vital role in promoting careers within the rural sector, celebrating the achievements of learners.

The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel in Perthshire on 6 March. As well as prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-Up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are awards for Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, Research Project, Mentor Award, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.

Dr Liz Barron-Majerik, director of Lantra Scotland, said: “Lantra Scotland’s ALBAS play an important role in the land based and aquaculture sector as they highlight the fantastic achievements of skilled and dedicated staff at different levels of their careers, from new entrants to career changers, while also showing employers, businesses and other organisations the benefits of skills development and partnership working.”