Agricultural Vehicle Operation Training & the Role of Local Newsletters
This case study highlights how targeted local funding and accessible financial support can create lasting positive change for young people in rural areas.
About the Fund
The Langhope Rig Wind Farm Education & Training Fund enhances the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in the Ettrick & Yarrow, Lilliesleaf, Ashkirk & Midlem, and Upper Teviotdale & Borthwick Water Community Council areas.
These bursaries support local residents to access training and education opportunities that equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to gain, or retain, employment.
The fund is administered by Foundation Scotland, and the funding is awarded by the Langhope Rig Wind Farm Community Panel, which is made up of members of the local community.
Background
In March 2025, Foundation Scotland and the Langhope Fund Panel discussed how it could proactively promote the Education and Training Fund through the fund area. It was agreed that the Fund should target the local community newsletters.
Thomas (the main focus of this case study) learned about the Langhope Rig Educational and Training Fund through the local Valley Newsletter, demonstrating the importance of community-based information sharing in rural areas where residents may have limited access to funding opportunities.
As a student in his final-year secondary school, living within a rural area, Thomas had aspirations to work in the agricultural sector in the Scottish Borders. Living in an area with limited public transport, he recognised that gaining driving qualifications and specialist vehicle operation skills would be essential for both accessing further education and securing future employment in the agricultural industry.
In September 2025, Thomas planned to commence an agricultural course at Borders College. However, funding specialist licenses provided a challenge as they were expensive and felt out of reach.
How the Funding Was Discovered
Having considered his options, Thomas explored how he might finance the training courses he needed. During this time, he became aware of the Langhope Rig Education and Training Fund (E&T Fund) advertised through the local Valley Newsletter.
Course Funding
Thomas applied to the Langhope E&T Fund and received just over £950 to support funding for the following courses, all delivered at local Scottish Borders training providers:
- ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) operation course
- Tele-handler operation course
- Tractor driving for beginners course
Thomas noted:
"I would not have thought about doing the course without the fund, as it is too expensive; it has reduced financial pressure and will help me in the long term to gain local employment. I really appreciate the help and opportunities presented to me through the fund."
Outcomes and Impact
The funding had immediate and long-term benefits for Thomas. In the immediate term, he successfully obtained qualifications in ATV and tele-handler operation whilst gaining practical driving experience across multiple agricultural vehicles. This training also enhanced his safety knowledge and competency in operating specialised equipment.
The long-term impact has been equally significant, with Thomas's improved employability in the agricultural sector stemming from his certified skills, which employers value in safety-conscious operators. Perhaps most importantly, the training has given Thomas greater confidence in pursuing his chosen agricultural career pathway, with employers recognising his commitment to specialised certification and safe operating practices.
Participant Feedback
Thomas's response to the support was overwhelmingly positive. He emphasised the value of the qualifications, stating:
"It was really beneficial to have the qualifications as employers look for safety operators who know their stuff, employers want to see tickets."
Thomas was particularly grateful for the financial support and acknowledged that knowing such assistance was available gave him the confidence to pursue opportunities he might not otherwise have considered.
He also highlighted the practical benefits of the Langhope E&T Fund:
"It is good to know that the fund is available to help with costs associated with funding training courses. I have now started an agricultural course at Borders College, and the qualification will help me gain placements. I am really happy to have received funding and support, and I felt that the information provided was useful and the application process was easy."
The Role of Local Newsletters in Rural Communities
Rural communities often face unique challenges in accessing information about available support and opportunities. Unlike urban areas, where multiple communication channels exist, rural residents frequently rely on trusted local sources for news and information. Community newsletters serve as a connection point, linking residents with essential services, funding opportunities, local events, and support networks that they might otherwise never discover. This case study is a great example of how understanding rural communication channels helps to connect local residents with funding sources.
Conclusion
By removing financial barriers to essential training, the fund has enabled Thomas to gain industry-recognised qualifications that enhanced both his immediate educational prospects and long-term career opportunities. This support, covering multiple types of vehicle operation training, provided Thomas with the practical skills and certifications needed to succeed in the agricultural sector.
This case study highlights how targeted local funding can create lasting positive change for young people in rural areas, demonstrating the profound impact that accessible financial support can have on individual career trajectories and retaining the young population within the rural fund area.
Read more about the Langhope Rig Wind Farm Education and Training Fund here.