LAST week saw a new and exciting project was launched at Auchenharvie Academy with the opening of the Pretty Little Nails Nail Bar.

The innovative venture aims to provide a wide range of skills which aims to enhance the employment prospects for a group of young pupils.

The young people will also have the opportunity to obtain qualifications in a number of areas through the support of Ayrshire College.

The funding for the project has been provided by Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire and Prince’s Trust Scotland Development Awards.

The monies provided by the funders through programmes to develop employability skills in young people has allowed the school to create a fully equipped nail bar initially providing training for up to twelve young people but also making it a sustainable venture.

This includes funding provided by the Scottish Government’s Cash Back for Communities programme.

The programme has been overseen by Steven McDougall, Principal Teacher DYW who said: “The room that Pretty Little Nails is based in has taken many months and lots of favours to set up. However, I am very pleased to say we are now in a position where the girls involved can develop their skills in a contemporary and professional working environment.”

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 skills for life, learning and work.”

The facility was officially opened by Provost Ian Clarkson who was accompanied by Claire Baird, DYW Ayrshire Project Executive and Walter Smith, Prince’s Trust Ayrshire Chair in front of representatives from Ayrshire College, Prince’s Trust, North Ayrshire Council as well as parents and other family members of the Pretty Little Nails pupils.

Claire 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.”