Could the winner of this year's Land-based Learner of the Year competition be a Welsh equestrian? The hunt is now on for nominees for this annual Lantra event, which recognises the talents of learners of all ages developing a career in Wales' land-based industries - including the equine industry.

Candidates from throughout Wales are eligible to compete for one of two titles - "Young Learner" and "Lifelong Learner" - as well as a cash prize and Lantra training voucher totalling £1,000.

Last year, two Welsh equine experts took the winning titles:

* Michael Williams, aged 22* of Newport, was a completely unanimous choice by the judging panel as the winner of the Land-based Learner of the Year's "Young Learner" title. Michael had gained practical experience in riding instruction & stable management and as an assistant to a trainer at a point-to-point racing yard. He was studying for HNDs in Equine Management and Business Administration, and had successfully completed numerous qualifications including a BTEC National Certificate in Business and
Advanced National Certificate in Equine Business Management (both passed with distinction).

* Jan Evans, aged 45* of Cardiff, proved to be a fantastic advertisement for lifelong learning and took the Land-based Learner of the Year "Lifelong Learner" title. Jan is now a self-employed equestrian instructor with extensive training, excellent technical knowledge and work experience in the areas of riding instruction and dressage, and works
actively with local farming families who are diversifying into livery and similar enterprises.

If you're an employer, teach at a college, or work for a trade association or industry body, and know of someone who has shown a similar commitment to vocational education and training since leaving school, why not nominate them?

"Candidates will be considered on their ability to deal with the challenges their job presents them with and on their use of initiative to secure a better future, as well as on their level of skill and attitude to learning," says Richard Thomas of Lantra's Welsh team.

The competition is open to people of all ages, and successful nominees will be invited to attend an informal interview with a panel of local industry representatives. Stage two of the competition will then see the regional finalists discuss their career development and deliver a presentation to the final judging panel.

The winner and runners up will be announced at Lantra's offices on the Royal Welsh Showground during this year's Winter Fair (1st - 2nd December). The closing date for nominations is Friday 31st October.

For more information and an entry form, contact Richard Thomas at Lantra on 01982 552646 or email richard.thomas@lantra.co.uk.

* = age at time of last year's awards.

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