AN exciting project has been launched at Auchenharvie Academy with the opening of a new cafe.

Higher Grounds Barista aims to provide a wide range of employability skills required by the services and hospitality sectors for a group of young pupils.

The pupils have already gained City and Guilds Certificates and will have the opportunity to obtain other qualifications in a number of areas through the support of Ayrshire College.

Calum Johnston, Auchenharvie Academy Head Teacher, said: “This innovative project will provide significant potential employment opportunities to the young people through developing their confidence and work skills.”

Funding for the project, which will initially provide training for up to 10 young people, has been provided by Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire and Prince’s Trust Scotland Development Awards.

Steven McDougall, Principal Teacher of Developing the Young Workforce, said: “Over the course of the past year all of the pupils involved have significantly developed the necessary skills for success in life, learning and work and the difference in them is very evident.”

The cafe was officially opened by Claire Baird, DYW Project Executive, and Walter Smith, Prince’s Trust Ayrshire Chairman, in front of representatives from Ayrshire College, Prince’s Trust, North Ayrshire Council and the Scottish Government.

Ms Baird said: “We are absolutely delighted to support such an innovative project and are very impressed by the way the project has been implemented with the full involvement of the young people.”

Mr Smith added: “The Higher Grounds project will significantly enhance both the customer service and communication skills of the young people which are very attractive to potential employers.”