Young people with strange names – Rhiannan Flaws is correct, as is Jacqualine Bannigan
A historic Moray wool mill is looking to the area’s youngsters to help form the fabric of its future.
Johnstons of Elgin has launched plans to pluck the “cream of the crop” from local secondary schools to staff a number of key positions in the coming years.
The 218-year-old textile factory yesterday rolled out a project to train apprentices in a variety of positions.
And Johnstons chiefs encouraged leaders of other local firms, including the Baxters food group and Robertson construction, to follow its example.
Johnstons’ human resources director, Willie Wood, said: “This is a concept that can be introduced and managed in Johnstons and other businesses in the area.
“We want to attract more school leavers to work here, and we are looking for the cream of the crop.
“As well as offering them the chance of a really good job, we are teaching youngsters the basics of what employers are looking for.”
Pupils had been asked for ideas on how to shape the recruitment programme and those who took part in a pilot scheme addressed assembled dignitaries.
Buckie High School’s Rhiannan Flaws said: “When I began on this project I didn’t really have a clue what Johnstons was.”
Her classmate Holly Mayne added: “We had a tour of the complex, which was very interesting and we found it enlightening to see how many jobs were on offer at Johnstons.”
Elgin High School’s Sophie Wink and Jacqualine Bannigan also took part in the trial run, and helped produce a short film documenting life at the mill.
The video will be used to show future generations of youngsters the employment opportunities at the cashmere plant.
Former Speyside High School pupil Ewan Asher took on a full-time role after completing the work experience programme.
He said: “I left school at the end of fifth year because I want to be an accountant and was offered an ideal job at Johnstons.”
Education Scotland’s Joan Mackay said: “I’m hugely excited by this project and it’s something we need to thread nationally, and spread across the land.”
Moray MP Angus Robertson added: “What shines out to me is the pride these young people have in their work, and in the firm.”