Green Skills Centre

The Cyrenians Green Skills Centre provides outdoor learning, skills development and wellbeing programmes for young people who are currently disengaged from mainstream education, training or traditional employment pathways. Based on an eight-acre site in West Lothian, the service offers a trauma-informed, person-centred environment where participants can build confidence, improve wellbeing and develop practical skills for the future.

The programme is particularly suitable for young people who may be at risk of unemployment, social exclusion or homelessness, and who would benefit from an alternative approach to learning and personal development. Activities combine hands-on experience with relationship-based support, helping participants build trust, resilience and a sense of purpose.

Learning opportunities include regenerative horticulture, market gardening, forest and outdoor learning, conservation, bushcraft, wellbeing activities and accredited programmes. Participants can develop practical skills in areas such as food growing, sustainability, land stewardship, peer mentoring and health and safety, while gaining experience that supports progression into further education, training, volunteering or employment.

The Green Skills Centre takes a holistic approach, recognising that positive outcomes often begin with improved confidence, wellbeing and social connection. Professionals have reported benefits including increased engagement, improved mental health, stronger social skills and greater readiness for future opportunities.

The service is a valuable referral option for professionals supporting young people who would benefit from practical, outdoor learning in a nurturing and supportive environment. For referral enquiries, contact Cyrenians Green Skills Centre at greenskillscentre@cyrenians.scot.