The Aigas Ranger Training Scheme has trained over 140 rangers

Aigas Ranger Training

Testimonials from our guests consistently praise the Aigas rangers’ knowledge and ability in the field and this is something we take great pride in.

The Aigas Ranger Training Scheme (ARTS), which has now been running for over 30 years, has been a huge success. During that time we have trained over 180 young rangers who have gone on to full time career posts in wildlife management, nature conservation or environmental education.

The intensive training our rangers undertake is supported by The Aigas Trust for Environmental Education. Subjects included during training include Highland natural history (birds, mammals, wildflowers, soils, native trees, invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians etc), glaciology, geomorphology and landforms, fresh water, woodland and moorland ecology, land-use, crofting, farming, forestry, wildcat husbandry and the Highland sporting tradition. We also provide formal training in first-aid, minibus driving, health and safety at work, lecturing and presentation skills and environmental education for children.

This year’s rangers

Aimee

Academic Placement Student

Aimee Johnson

Emily

Academic Placement Student

Emily Hill

Sophie

Academic Placement Student

Sophie Hodson

Louis Schopp

Conservation Manager

Louis Schöpp

Head Ranger

Jacob New

Senior Ranger

Emilie Shuttlewood

Seasonal Ranger

Aaron Goodall

Seasonal Ranger

Katie Edge

Seasonal Ranger

Lottie Andrews

Seasonal Ranger

Vikki Swinburn

Wildcat Officer

Maria Giulia Checchi

Calum

Freelance Senior Ranger

Calum Urquhart

I can honestly say that this was one of the best holidays I have ever had. The staff were so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The accommodation was great - right in the heart of the Aigas Estate, and close to nature. I would not hesitate to recommend this to anyone who is interested in seeing wildlife 'up close and personal'. I was so pleased to see Pine Martens, Badgers, Beaver, Dolphins, Golden Eagles, White Tailed Sea Eagles, Osprey, and so much more! The scenery was stunning, and we were so lucky with the weather - which was superb. The group who shared my holiday experience with me were a really friendly and enthusiastic bunch. Thank you to everyone who played a part.
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Helen R

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Helen R

I can honestly say that this was one of the best holidays I have ever had. The staff were so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The accommodation was great - right in the heart of the Aigas Estate, and close to nature. I would not hesitate to recommend this to anyone who is interested in seeing wildlife 'up close and personal'. I was so pleased to see Pine Martens, Badgers, Beaver, Dolphins, Golden Eagles, White Tailed Sea Eagles, Osprey, and so much more! The scenery was stunning, and we were so lucky with the weather - which was superb. The group who shared my holiday experience with me were a really friendly and enthusiastic bunch. Thank you to everyone who played a part.
The first thing that struck us was that the friendliness of the staff and hosts was still as good as it had been when we went there some three years ago. Lady Lucy's one wish seemed to be that she wanted our holiday week to be as good as possible and to that end could not do enough for us whether it was a change of menu or the need for an extra pillow. We were there for a garden and wild flower week going out in a small group with a big packed lunch we chose ourselves from a variety of items with a very knowledgeable ranger to help us with local history and names of flowers which they knew the whereabouts of. Sir John added to the mix with a dry sense of humour. It was not all wild flowers as we saw some spectacular scenery, visited private gardens and listened to interesting talks. It seemed that they were there to give you the holiday you want in the way that you want it.
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Malcolm L

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Malcolm L

The first thing that struck us was that the friendliness of the staff and hosts was still as good as it had been when we went there some three years ago. Lady Lucy's one wish seemed to be that she wanted our holiday week to be as good as possible and to that end could not do enough for us whether it was a change of menu or the need for an extra pillow. We were there for a garden and wild flower week going out in a small group with a big packed lunch we chose ourselves from a variety of items with a very knowledgeable ranger to help us with local history and names of flowers which they knew the whereabouts of. Sir John added to the mix with a dry sense of humour. It was not all wild flowers as we saw some spectacular scenery, visited private gardens and listened to interesting talks. It seemed that they were there to give you the holiday you want in the way that you want it.
From the time you arrive until you leave you are treated like family, royal family by Sr. John and Lady Lucy. The cabins in the woods are cozy and well appointed. The meals, mostly prepared by Lady Lucy are so wonderful you don't want to leave. A purchase of her cook book is a must! It is a beautiful central location to just enjoy the environment or to take day trip which they will arrange for you. Don't miss the wild life siting in the Hide House or the readings by Sr. John, a naturalist and author.
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Susan G

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Susan G

From the time you arrive until you leave you are treated like family, royal family by Sr. John and Lady Lucy. The cabins in the woods are cozy and well appointed. The meals, mostly prepared by Lady Lucy are so wonderful you don't want to leave. A purchase of her cook book is a must! It is a beautiful central location to just enjoy the environment or to take day trip which they will arrange for you. Don't miss the wild life siting in the Hide House or the readings by Sr. John, a naturalist and author.