Providing lifelong learning opportunities for those with additional support needs.
VSA Easter Anguston is an operational farm which serves as a training facility with outcome-based opportunities for adults with learning difficulties, mental health challenges, acquired brain injuries and physical disabilities. The farm is situated just off the A93 road towards Banchory in Peterculter and has 70 acres of arable land.
Easter Anguston Farm has an established history, and reputation, with over 30 years delivering a unique training opportunity; plus excellent support to trainees through its highly qualified and trained staff.
Louise, kindly shares her story with us of how the trainee programme at Easter Anguston Farm has helped support her son Logan.
VSA Easter Anguston Farm aims to provide meaningful and individualised training placements, providing practical educational opportunities around 3 pillars:
Trainees generally work in small groups (3-4) led by a qualified support worker with expertise in that area. However, on occasion and where appropriate, will work more independently on projects with supervision e.g. tractor work and specific animal activities. This helps further develop their independence and self-confidence, aiding self-esteem within the group and in the community they live in.
Our trainees gain an overall understanding of a working placement, helping build self-esteem and confidence and preparing those that are able to look for additional or further employment. Currently 25% of the trainees attending have achieved subsequent other employment in the community, using some of the skills gained at the Training Centre.
The plans are developed to ensure they are appropriate for each of their individual learning ability. Our staff will then work individually with the trainee to reach these aims and goals with regular reviews of progress.
VSA employ staff with a wide range of skills beyond the key care qualifications, including an experienced veterinary surgeon, an equine management degree holder and horticulture qualification, relevant to our working practices on the farm.
All staff undergo extensive ongoing training in appropriate fields to ensure we deliver the best of care and skills development to our trainees.
