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Community Woodlands Association webinar: Inspiring Young People Through Rural Skills Training 

Wednesday 27 August 2026.| 4-5pm. Online. Free.

Join us for the next Community Woodlands Webinar, exploring how community woodland groups can successfully engage and develop young people through practical rural skills training. 

Using Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust (HPCLT) as a case study, Willie McGhee, Woodland Manager at HPCLT, will share the story behind the Youth Training and Volunteer Programme that has been running at the Dun Coillich community land site since 2016. 

Willie will discuss the hows, whys and wherefores of establishing a youth training programme, including: 

  • Why youth training is important for community woodland organisations 

  • How to assess local demand and identify training opportunities 

  • The practical steps involved in setting up a programme 

  • The range of rural skills being taught 

  • The outcomes and progression routes for participating young people 

Since its launch, the programme has supported more than 100 young people to gain valuable skills and experience, with HPCLT currently employing two apprentices who have progressed through the initiative. 

Whether you're considering starting a youth training scheme, expanding your volunteering opportunities, or simply interested in learning from a successful community-led project, this webinar offers valuable insight and practical advice. 

Join us to hear how investment in young people can help build skills, confidence and a stronger future for community woodlands.

Jen Pittendreigh