We are always working hard to research and develop the skills and training issues within our sector. Please see below for more information about some of our recent publications.

Primary research: Horticulture, Landscaping and Sports Turf, Environmental Conservation & Trees and Timber

Part of Lantra's 'core' function is to ensure that each of its industries has up-to-date and robust evidence, where possible linking information gathering with the plan to update National Occupational Standards (NOS). In 2011, Lantra conducted research to update and review the available information for three industries, namely Horticulture, Landscaping and Sports Turf, Environmental Conservation and Trees and Timber.

The research had a Great Britain remit and included engaging with employers in these three industries in Scotland, Wales and England (excludes Northern Ireland, as research into all industries was carried out in Northern Ireland last year). The aim of the research was to gain quantitative and qualitative information on businesses and employees, using a short telephone survey as well as in-depth telephone interviews conducted by the research team.

The research reports have now been published: click for HLST, Environmental Conservation or Trees and Timber.

South West Animal Related Apprenticeship Survey

Together with VETNET Lifelong Learning Network (LLN) SW. Lantra carried out an exclusive piece of research into the progression to Higher Education from Veterinary Nursing and Animal-related Apprenticeships in the South West. 

The research aimed to explore opinions and views on Animal-related Apprenticeships, and included desk research using information on courses from HEIs and FE providers, as well as primary research with three main groups: employers, apprentices and providers. 

Download 'Progression to Higher Education from Veterinary Nursing and Animal-related Apprenticeships' - download the full report or executive summary.

The Welsh Food and Drink Skills Project

The Welsh Food and Drink Skills Project aims to make sure the Welsh food and drink industry is equipped with the skills needed to meet the challenges of the next ten years.

The project assessed the supply and demand for vocational education and training on behalf of the four Sector Skills Councils that are responsible for the food and drink supply chain (Lantra, Improve, Skillsmart Retail and People 1st).

The research is based on a representative sample of approximately 2,000 businesses across Wales, which was collated through a large scale telephone survey and a series of qualitative interviews and workshops, which also included industry stakeholders, employers, learning providers and students.

 Download 'The Welsh Food & Drink Skills project: Delivering skills for future growth' - download the full report or executive summary.

Game and Wildlife Skills: Scotland

In March 2011, Lantra was commissioned by Scottish National Heritage to undertake research that would provide insight into the wildlife management sector in Scotland.

The final report has recently been published and includes information on the nature of the sector, qualifications and skills among the workforce, and uptake of learning and training activities.

Click here to download the full Game and Wildlife Skills report.

To see a complete list of publications, click here.