PUPILS in Dumfries have been given a taste of a career in agriculture with the launch of the Skills for Farming Group's inaugural 'Be a Farmer Day' - an event supported by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

Held at SRUC Barony last month, the National Skills for Farming Group, which consists of stakeholders from across the agricultural industry, delivered sessions focused on improving young people's perceptions of the industry and showcasing the range of careers available.

Murray Steel from United Auctions in Stirling spoke to students about the skills needed to be an auctioneer and his career path during a "Be an Auctioneer" workshop presented by QMS and The Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers Scotland (IAAS). Murray highlighted the variety available within the job, which includes the chance to travel across Scotland and the opportunity to meet new people.

QMS's Health & Education Manager Alix Ritchie spoke with pupils about the journey red meat makes from farm to fork, and the wide range of careers available throughout the journey. To end the session, pupils took part in an auction where an imaginary sheep was sold for over £1 million.

Throughout the day pupils also learned about sheep shearing, technology in agriculture, tractors, dairy farming, animal husbandry, research, engineering and countryside management.

Perception analysis was carried out prior to, during and after the event to find out the young people's initial perception of the industry and how the 'Be a Farmer Day' has influenced their views.

Neil Wilson, Executive Director of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers Scotland, said: "We were delighted that Murray was able to share his passion and enthusiasm for his job as an auctioneer. We need a continued pipeline of skilled young people to work in our auction marts and events like this to help encourage the next generation."

Alix Ritchie, Health & Education Manager at Quality Meat Scotland, said: "Having been involved in the planning of this event from its conception, it was great to see the pupils at SRUC Barony learning about the variety of careers available.

"Many of those attending had never considered agriculture as a possible pathway, and really engaged with the sessions with some looking for additional information. A huge thanks must go to SRUC Barony for hosting the event and to all those, including Murray, for making it possible."

For more information on Quality Meat Scotland, visit www.qmscotland.co.uk