Scottish Government
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A £759 million adventure

Young people urged to consider a career in growing tourism sector.

Training as a guide or instructor could lead to an exciting career in adventure tourism and the chance to spend time in some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

With adventure tourism being worth £759 million to Scotland’s economy every year, Minister for Youth Employment Angela Constance has led a Highland summit on employment opportunities in the sector.

The support available to businesses looking to take on young people has also been highlighted as part of the event at Glenmore Lodge in Aviemore.

Ms Constance said:

“Tourism is a vital sector to the Scottish economy, supporting around 186,000 jobs and worth billions. With our history and culture, it’s no wonder that Scotland is an attractive place to visit, but we shouldn’t underestimate the importance and vibrancy of adventure tourism, particularly in the Highlands where opportunities to see our beautiful scenery at the same time as getting the pulse racing are countless.

“The Scottish Government has been working with the public, private and third sectors to support more young people towards employment by making young people their business and creating opportunities to help them make the most of their potential. I hope today’s event has been useful for attendees and will open more doors for young people to get involved in activities such as rafting, mountain biking, climbing and putting the required infrastructure in place for all these activities.

“With a guaranteed offer of a place in education or training for all 16 to 19 year olds, 25,000 new Modern Apprenticeships created every year and a range of support for graduates, the Scottish Government is committed to ensuring every young person, regardless of their background can make the most of their potential. This is an exciting sector looking to build up a skilled and knowledgeable base of young people to help drive it forward.”

Notes to editors

Young people with an interest in a career in adventure tourism should contact Skills Development Scotland at 0800 917 8000 or www.myworldofwork.co.uk/ or visit their Inverness office.

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