Scottish Crofting Federation Rolls Out New Training Programme to Support Crofters Across the Highlands &
Islands!
The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) has launched its latest round of in-person and online training, with
events scheduled across the crofting counties from now through to spring 2026.
The new calendar of in-person and online events will help equip crofters across the Highlands and Islands with
skills needed for a resilient future.
At the heart of the programme is Crofting for the Future, a series of two-day, in-person training courses funded
by the Scottish Government’s Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund (KTIF). These interactive workshops are designed to support crofters, new entrants and old hands alike, as they navigate the challenges of a changing climate, shifting regulations and evolving markets.
Places on the new courses are subsidised to ensure affordability with SCF members paying just £50 (£80 for non-members). More courses are due to be added to the programme and announced in the near future.
Each training event includes expert-led modules, croft visits and practical advice on everything from agricultural
policy and economic sustainability to improving crofting practices for climate change, biodiversity and more.
SCF Chief Executive Donna Smith said: “These courses are rooted in real-world experience. Everyone who attends
will learn from real working crofters, see good practice in action and get clear advice they can take home and use
straight away.”
Alongside the KTIF programme, SCF is also running a broader range of online training, including a series of
horticulture-focused workshops with market gardener John Hamilton, and guides to agricultural and housing
grant schemes related to crofting.
Crofting continues to face serious challenges, from rising costs to pressures on land access. The SCF’s 2025–26
training programme reflects a belief that crofters, when equipped with the right support and skills, are uniquely
placed to lead the way in sustainable land stewardship.
More details on the course content and on how to book can be found via www.crofting.org/training.
CURRENT COURSE DETAILS
1. Upcoming “Crofting for the Future” In-person Courses
• North Uist – 5–6 September 2025 @ Hosta Hall, HS6 5DF
• Isle of Lewis – 12–13 September 2025 @ Pairc Trust Resource Centre, HS2 9QA
• Balmacara – 10–11 October 2025 @ The Steadings, IV40 8DJ
• Keiss, Caithness – 17–18 October 2025 @ Keiss Hall, KW1 4XB
• Ullapool – 31 October – 1 November 2025 @ Macphail Centre, IV26 2UN
2. Upcoming Online Workshops
• Crofting Basics Series (via Zoom, 7.30pm–9pm)
◦ “Croft Housing Grant Scheme Explained” – 9 Sep 2025
◦ “Crofting Agricultural Grant Scheme Explained” – 2 Sep 2025
• Online Horticulture Series (via Zoom, 7.00pm–9pm):
◦ “Preserving & Growing Over Winter” – 26 August 2025
◦ “Planning for a Market Garden” – 14 October 2025
◦ “Preparing for the Season” – 17 February 2026
More courses are due to be added to these programmes and will be announced in the near future.
Booking And Further Course Information
More details on the course content and on how to book can be found via:
www.crofting.org/training
www.tickettailor.com/events/scottishcroftingfederation
