A revolutionary cookery school is set to open next summer at the new Inverness Campus.
The plans involve recreating a realistic hotel environment for students by abandoning the traditional classroom and training kitchen combination to run a live restaurant for students, staff and visitors.
The proposed training facility, which will be inside the new Inverness College UHI building, has been driven forward by newly appointed hospitality manager, Stuart Stirling.
Mr Stirling, 47, believes a more industry-like approach will help students gain the hands-on experience they need to hit the ground running when they enter the hospitality and catering profession.
After four years as an executive chef at the city’s Kingsmills Hotel, Mr Stirling decided to join the college this summer. He brings with him more than 30 years of industry experience, making him a valuable asset for students as they prepare for work in hotels and kitchens across Scotland and beyond.
He said: “As a professional chef I learned how important it is to have a good team of able colleagues to support you. People entering the industry today must have the necessary skills as well as experience of what can be a high pressure but rewarding environment.
“There has never been a better time to enter the hospitality industry in the Highlands. The sector is booming, and our reputation as the home for quality food and drink is second to none.
“What’s more, from summer 2015 those training in the Highlands will be able to do so at the incredible new Inverness College UHI facility at Inverness Campus. I’ve seen the plans and I cannot wait to make the move to the new building next year.”
Diane Rawlinson, principal and chief executive at Inverness College UHI, said: “At Inverness College UHI we pride ourselves on our excellent relationship with the local business community and we are working hard to provide an innovative training environment to build a strong hospitality and tourism workforce for the future.
“With Stuart joining the team as hospitality manager, our students are set to enter the workplace with enviable technical skills as well as the workplace confidence they need to succeed.
“Hospitality and professional cookery training opens doors that lead to rewarding and incredibly diverse careers both here and abroad. I am delighted that this will have a particular focus at our new campus.”