Top Dundee chefs have been enlisted to prepare secondary pupils for a career in one of the city’s fastest growing industries.
Studies have identified that 700 new jobs will be created in the local hospitality sector within the next few years and 70 new chefs needed to meet demand.
To that end, the Chefs@School programme has been introduced to the city to link schools with chefs, restaurants and hotels in the city.
Backed by the Scottish Government, it is designed to help local young people realise the job opportunities that exist in the hospitality sector and inspire their ambitions.
Local chefs and food industry experts met home economics principal teachers from across the city at Harris Academy to launch the initiative ahead of a city-wide roll-out during the new school year.
Councillor Stewart Hunter said Chefs@School was “an inspiring programme” and expressed delight that Dundee pupils will be able to benefit from it.
He said: “Home economics is a popular subject and Chefs@School will help to broaden the horizons of pupils, helping with their studies and their career choices.
“I am also pleased that our local food sector, which is forging a real reputation for excellence, is able to raise its profile with young people in the city.
“This programme is also about giving pupils the appropriate skills to make a real impact and contribution to the future of the city.”
Over the coming months and years, the hospitality sector will be working with secondary schools to bring food education to life,
The youngsters will learn from the very best, with multi-award-winning chef Adam Newth from Dundee’s Tayberry among the first to sign up.
Newth has gained an enviable reputation as one of the country’s finest young chefs, making him an ideal mentor for the next generation.
Malmaison, Jute Café Bar, Castlehill, Apex Hotel, Avery & Co, Clark’s the Bakers and the Hilton Doubletree are also involved.