© Salmon Scotland
Sea2Me, an experiential hands-on learning programme, gave 37 pupils from Plockton High School the chance to step outside the classroom and discover how Scottish salmon is farmed, processed, and exported around the world - all from their own doorstep near the Isle of Skye.
Organised by the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) West Highland, in collaboration with Salmon Scotland and Mowi Scotland, the programme ran from April 28 to May 1. Over the course of the week, pupils took part in a new product development challenge and toured Kishorn Port and dry dock.
Working in teams, pupils were tasked with creating an original product concept and producing a 60-second recruitment reel to promote careers in the sector. The overall winner was team ‘Kebabulous’ with their ‘Salmon Kebabulous’ concept. Special awards for teamwork and creativity were presented to ‘River Fresh’ and ‘The Salmonators’, respectively. Many pupils expressed surprise at the size of the salmon pens and the space the fish have to move. For most, visiting the salmon farm was the highlight of the week.
The pilot is intended to spike interest in future careers and encourage more young people to become part of Scotland’s salmon farming success story. Further Sea2Me events are being planned across five areas of the west coast where salmon farming and the blue economy plays a key role in local communities.
As Forbes said in a press release: “Skills in the Highlands are of critical importance. We’ve got great industries and lots of potential for growth, but we need to invest in the next generation. I am delighted to see this event taking place, and I wish everybody well. I hope that school pupils are inspired by the opportunities to work locally."
Elfine George, principal teacher of guidance at Plockton high school, added: “I think the young people have really embraced all the opportunities that have been given to them this week, really risen to the challenge, shown some fabulous teamwork and problem-solving skills and really responded well to all the tasks that that they were offered. They'll be able to see themselves in these roles, see their future self and plan directly for that, and I think that's really powerful.”
