North coast apprenticeship scheme hailed as a "significant step" towards stemming depopulation
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A RETIRED north coast head teacher has warmly welcomed the introduction of an apprenticeship scheme in the area.
Jim Johnston, formerly of Farr High School and the secretary of Bettyhill, Strathnaver and Altnaharra Community Council, said he hoped the initiative would help address depopulation.
He said: "During my time as head teacher of Farr High School, I saw many talented young people with no option but to leave their homes and move south to find employment.
"This apprenticeship scheme is a significant step to stemming the flow."
Some £200,000 funding for the project has been sourced from SSE Strathy North Community Fund - Mr Johnston is a member of the fund's panel.
The newly formed Farr North Community Development Trust (Farr North) launched the apprenticeship scheme at a special event in Bettyhill Village Hall earlier this month.
In attendance were directors of the board of Farr North, business representatives, parents and potential apprentices as well as members of the Strathy North fund's panel.
Farr North Trust manager Simon Lee gave a welcoming address and spoke about the scheme which will initially run for five years and support a minimum of 12 apprentices with the potential for it to be extended.
Businesses will be eligible for up to £15,000 over three years if they provide apprenticeships leading to valid qualifications.
Mr Lee said: "The apprenticeships considered will not be limited to traditional apprenticeships. There is a wide range of opportunities for all businesses within the community."
SSE community investment manager Fiona Morrison highlighted the importance of the scheme to the local community, saying such an initiative was one of the priorities identified by the Strathy North panel when it was first set up.
It is anticipated there will be a slow start to the scheme. Businesses and young people in the area interested in finding out more are encouraged to contact Mr Lee by phone 01641 521422 or email: manager@farrnorth.onmicrosoft.com.
