About the Programme
The King’s Foundation at Dumfries House is offering an industry-standard Farming and Rural Skills training programme, as part of the MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre. The course will include:
- Introduction to the knowledge and practical experiences in farming and rural skills.
- Insight into the local and national industry.
- Four weeks in-house training.
- Opportunity for a two-week placement.
- One week employability development.
What we offer:
- A seven-week training programme, including a two-week placement at no cost to participants.
- Hands-on training with livestock and sheep.
- Full farm PPE provided.
- Transport available from Cumnock bus station/Auchinleck train station, at no cost to participants.
- Training in a purpose-built farm setting on a working estate farm.

How to apply
Apply using our online application form.
Applications close on: Monday 22nd September 2025.
Interview dates: Week beginning Monday 29th September. Successful candidates will be invited to a taster day on Tuesday 7th October.
The course will begin on Monday 13th October and run until Friday 28th November 2025.
Who can take part?
Any adult aged 18+ including:
- Those at any stage in their career, looking for a career change.
- DWP clients who would like to find employability in the agriculture industry.
- College leavers interested in getting into the agriculture and rural skills industry.
