Meet The Team
Introducing our Staff
Cara Cameron
Founder & CEO, Lochview Rural Training
Cara Cameron is the founder and CEO of Lochview Rural Training, a social enterprise based in the heart of Sutherland, dedicated to promoting rural skills, wellbeing, and access to the natural world for people of all backgrounds and abilities. Originally from Cardiff, Wales, Cara did not grow up in an agricultural setting. At 18 Cara went off travelling, whilst living in Spain she met her Scottish husband . After returning to the UK, she went on to formally study agriculture and later completed a postgraduate qualification in Organic Farming. Cara strongly believes that young people must be given the opportunity to learn about the land-based sector and local food production, helping them build a deeper connection to the environment and their own wellbeing. This belief became the foundation of Lochview Rural Training—a place where land, learning, and care come together. With a deep commitment to inclusivity and therapeutic outdoor learning, Cara has built Lochview into a nurturing space where individuals of all abilities can gain confidence, skills, and a sense of purpose. Her leadership continues to champion rural education as a vital path toward personal and community growth.
Angela Platts
Development Officer
Angela moved to Lairg in 2021 and started working for Lochview Rural Training in 2024. Angela’s background is in supporting the development of services for children, young people and families, and in Community Learning and Development. Angela was a foster carer for several years, and is passionate about supporting children and young people to reach their full potential regardless of any barriers that they may face. Angela has a Foundation Degree in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, a BA Honors in Education and Professional Studies, and is a qualified TEFL teacher. Angela’s love for the outdoors, animals, travel, and photography is matched by her passion for the stunning Scottish Highlands, where she finds daily inspiration. At Lochview Rural Training, Angela is dedicated to creating opportunities for young people to connect with rural life and thrive.
Ruth Hinsley
Rural skills assistant
Living on the beautiful west coast near Lochinver, Ruth is a crofter, contract shepherd, and tutor with Lochview Rural Training. Although not from a farming background, Ruth has a deep passion for the rural way of life. Ruth studied agriculture at SRUC and is committed to encouraging others, especially those without an agricultural background, to get involved in rural and outdoor activities. With a keen interest in animal behaviour, she loves training sheepdogs and horses. When not working, Ruth enjoys exploring the hills or spending time at the beach with her horse. Ruth believes strongly in the positive impact that outdoor life has on mental health, which is why she believes that Lochview Rural Training’s work is so essential.
Hannah Rattue-Young
Rural Skills Assistant
Hello, I'm Hannah, a Registered Nutritionist with a passion for the outdoors, sustainability, and all things food! I recently joined Lochview Rural Training as a Rural Skills Assistant, bringing experience from my background in the NHS and a strong belief in the powerful connection between food, movement, and nature in supporting overall health and wellbeing. I love educating others about how the natural world can help us thrive — whether it’s through growing food, being active outdoors, or caring for animals. At home, I share my life with three friendly kunekune pigs who keep me grounded (and entertained!). I'm thrilled to be part of the Lochview family, supporting learners as they gain confidence and new skills in a welcoming, inclusive, and nature-focused setting.
Amanda Freeman
Outdoor Education Specialist at Lochview Rural Training
Amanda is a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the Lochview Rural Training team, bringing her love of the outdoors into everything she does. With a particular passion for Forest School-based activities, she thrives on helping others connect with nature in meaningful and hands-on ways. Whether she's leading a session in the woods or enjoying a wild swim in one of Sutherland's beautiful lochs, Amanda is most at home when surrounded by nature—especially water! She brings with her a strong background working with young people with Additional Support Needs (ASN), and is deeply committed to creating inclusive, nurturing learning environments. Amanda loves sharing her knowledge of growing, crafting, and creating with natural materials gathered from the croft and the woods, inspiring others to engage with the land and develop practical, therapeutic skills for life.