Scottish Apprenticeship Week - Dobbies Stirling

INVESTING in Modern Apprentices gives businesses the chance to hire the cream of the crop, according to a leading Stirling restaurant.

Bosses at Dobbies Garden Centre are backing Scottish Apprenticeship Week, organised by Skills Development Scotland, which runs from May 20 to 24.

Dobbies Stirling restaurant manager Gillian Crawford explains: "Our restaurant in Stirling is a highly successful and busy operation. We need to have the best staff, properly trained and highly skilled in all areas of the business, and the Modern Apprenticeship programme helps us to achieve that."

Gillian adds: "By investing in trainees, we can identify their particular strengths and employ them where they are needed most, boosting the business as a whole.

It also gives us the chance to get to know them, build on their enthusiasm and determination to succeed."

James Innes is about to complete his Hospitality Leadership and Supervision MA with Dobbie's restaurant.

The 20-year-old from Raploch explains: "I left school unsure about what I wanted to do so when I saw the advert for the Modern Apprenticeship it looked like a great opportunity.

"I really enjoy my job because in addition to food preparation and serving duties, I am now developing supervisory skills which will help me to further my career."

He adds: "It's been great because I've been able to work and get a qualification at the same time."

Skills Development Scotland Chair John McClelland said: "The main aims of Scottish Apprenticeship Week are to show employers the tangible benefits that Modern Apprentices can bring to their businesses as well as giving people a vital start in their careers. I hope this week will encourage employers in Stirling to offer more apprenticeship opportunities, because of the benefits apprenticeships bring to individuals, their employers' businesses and ultimately Scotland’s economy."