Craig Adamson’s interest in agriculture began with his time as a volunteer with a youth project improving green spaces, where he discovered a passion for working outdoors.
Despite living in a rural area, he wasn’t sure how to break into the industry until he discovered Ringlink’s pre-apprenticeship programme.
During his placement in an outdoor piggery in Fife, Craig handled a variety of essential tasks including feeding and checking the animals, scraping feeders and supporting pregnant sows during farrowing.
He also managed maintenance duties like sweeping sheds and erecting fences. Craig admits he was initially hesitant about working with pigs but has grown to love every aspect of the role, particularly weaning.
For Craig, the placement has been about more than just agricultural skills. Having an autism diagnosis, he previously found communicating with new people challenging. However, the supportive environment of the farm has allowed his confidence to grow daily.
“My mentor Gemma Clark made me feel welcome and like I make a difference in the team,” said Craig. Gemma’s own history as a former pre-apprentice also helped him feel more relaxed.
Gemma describes Craig as “a confident laddie” who is never afraid to get stuck in.
“He doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty and there’s no such word as ‘can’t’ in his vocabulary.”
She said she values his unique perspective on tasks, admitting Craig might find a way to solve a problem she’d not thought of.
For Craig, the greatest achievement of the programme is his personal growth.
“The programme and placement have allowed me to get quite a few training tickets and thrive somewhere where my contribution is celebrated and that I feel I can be myself.”
Find out more about the pre-apprenticeship programme here, or about becoming a mentor here.
