Black Isle pupils found out for themselves what it is like in the workplace by swapping classroom lessons for life lessons.
Youngsters from Avoch Primary joined the local workforce when they took part in a week-long programme with a difference.
The children from all year groups, including nursery, enjoyed diverse experiences including running a community café, learning about robotics and investigating a crime scene.
Parents, businesses and the local community all stepped in to offer their support, with the Avoch pupils hearing from experts from a wide range of fields including archaeology, police, science, architecture, dance and medicine.
Some lucky pupils even enjoyed a day out of the classroom as they headed to work with family members, including P7 pupils Ella Murray, who spent the day with her grandmother, Evelyn, at Hilton Post Office, and Rhuairidh MacDonald, who worked with his dad, Philip, at the Donald Mackenzie garage in Inverness.
Lorna Sim, head teacher, Avoch Primary School, said: “I enjoyed seeing the children take part in the wide variety of experiences, such as linking with Edinburgh University via Skype to learn about robotics, CPR training and working with professionals from a variety of industries, including the emergency services, construction, retail, healthcare, agriculture and education.
“The children also tested out their skills in practical exercises, including job applications, lesson planning and surveying local businesses.
“I have been so impressed by what we have accomplished and would like to extend our thanks to everyone, including the school staff, who helped make the week such an enormous success. I look forward to working with all our new partners in the future.”
The programme was an opportunity for school-age children to learn about the variety of jobs that exist, as well helping them understand the different pathways into work and the skills required by each industry.
Andy Maxtone, programme manager, Developing the Young Workforce, DYW, Inverness and Central Highland, said: “Initiatives such as this are vital in helping young people understand and develop the skills early on that will help inform career decisions in the future. It’s great to get them excited about work and all the opportunities that are out there in a fun, engaging way.”
