Students from a north-east secondary school have been given a unique look at the career opportunities within tourism and hospitality.
On Wednesday, 30 senior pupils from Aboyne Academy were invited to a day of hands-on activities on the nearby Glen Tanar Estate, investigating the positions available in catering, events, hospitality and wildlife tourism.
This included a banqueting challenge, where they had to set a table for a wedding, and a cooking demonstration from an executive head chef.
The pupils were also given an insight into the daily tasks of a ghillie and deer stalker.
It is hoped that the events could help inspire the “next generation” of tourism workers to take up a career in the field.
Visitors to Scotland currently spend more than £4.5billion a year, with this figure expected to rise to £6.5billion by 2020.
Glen Tanar Estate owner Michael Bruce said: “We have had tourism at the heart of our business for over 100 years and we welcome visitors from all over the world.
“Today’s young people will shape the future of the tourism industry and we are delighted to welcome Aboyne Academy pupils to the estate for interactive, practical experience of our wildlife activities, events and self-catering cottages.”
James Bream, director of Developing the Young Workforce North East Scotland, added: “This pilot session was a fantastic example of a local business bringing what they do to life for the next generation and we hope that many of the students who attended the event will be inspired to pursue careers in this exciting and growing sector.”
