The farming community is being encouraged to have their say in a review of the different roles, skills and responsibilities found in this diverse sector.

Lantra is encouraging people working in agricultural livestock and crops to participate in a consultation on the skills and knowledge required to work in this industry. Everyone who gets involved has the opportunity to win a Christmas hamper from Box Clever.

As the Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industries, Lantra is working with key partners in the farming sector to update and review the National Occupational Standards (NOS). NOS are an essential tool for any size agricultural business or organisation as they define the skills and knowledge required for different job roles and can be used to identify skills gaps and pinpoint where training is needed. The updated NOS will help support the professional skills development of everyone working in the Agricultural Crops and Livestock sector.

Alastair Johnston, Lantra’s Agriculture Industry Manager says: “The National Occupational Standards (NOS) create a foundation from which future agricultural qualifications and training are created, so it is very important that we get as much input from industry as possible.

“Agriculture has undergone many skills and technology changes over the past few years, so this vital review will ensure that changes are reflected in the standards, and ensure that tomorrow’s learners have the skills employers will be looking for.”

Lantra is seeking participants from each of the four nations working in Livestock, Crops or mixed farming. So far this year Lantra has been holding working groups, focus groups and one-to-one meetings to hear the view of employers, trade associations, awarding organisations and other Standard Setting Organisations (SSOs). Now as many people as possible are encouraged to participate in an online consultation from 5 November to 16 December. Every entrant will have the opportunity to win a hamper in time for Christmas, kindly provided by Box Clever Hampers.

Jenny Smith, Lantra’s Standards and Qualifications Project Manager says: “We really need your help in this review as these Standards cannot be developed without your expertise and specialist knowledge. Only by working together can today’s professionals make sure that the revised Standards will take into account any new business practices and make them fit for purpose and valued by the industry.”

The consultation can be viewed from 5 November to 16 December by visiting www.consult-on.com. For more information about the review visit www.lantra.co.uk/NOS, email standardsandquals@lantra.co.uk or call 02476 858 424.