Bakkafrost gives pupils a taste of the salmon farming life

Pupils in Lochgilphead and a Hebridean island have been given a look at the diverse careers available in Scotland’s aquaculture sector during visits by salmon farmer Bakkafrost Scotland to Lochgilphead High School and Sgoil Lionacleit (Liniclate School) on Benbecula.

The visits included demonstrations of remote feed systems, insights into salmon hatchery production, and salmon samples for the pupils to taste.

Bakkafrost Scotland has more than 400 employees across 45 sites on the West Coast of Scotland, the Hebrides and its Edinburgh head office.

Managing director Ian Laister said: “These events are essential to ensure we are able to attract and inspire the workforce of the future.

“They allow us to showcase the abundance of career opportunities within the aquaculture industry and reinforce our commitment to the communities in which we live and work.”

Around 400 Lochgilphead High School S4 to S6 pupils attended the career event last Tuesday.

Craig Johnstone, marine site manager in Gigha, was on hand to discuss different parts of the sector. Pupils were put through their paces by going head-to-head taking part in a PPE challenge, racing to see who could get dressed into a lifejacket, waterproofs and wellies the fastest.

“It’s great to get out and about into our communities and give the young people a flavour of what it is like to be a fish farmer,” said Johnstone.

Making choices

“Many of those who attended will be making choices for their next steps in education or maybe apprenticeships.

“We understand our role in remote and rural communities, providing employment and enabling people to stay in the area they grew up. Going into schools and answering questions is a vital part of that.”

The Lochgilphead visit also featured a presentation by seafood enthusiast and educator Catriona Frankitti, who shared insights into health benefits of eating fish, and offered samples for the pupils to taste.

Last Thursday, it was the turn of S1- S6 pupils at Sgoil Lionacleit, Benbecula, to learn more about the different careers available to them in aquaculture.

Bakkafrost broodstock manager Charlotte Barr and area manager Robert Currie arranged demonstrations for the pupils including counting and packing eggs.

Each year group had tailored sessions designed to prepare pupils for the world of work, depending at what stage they have reached on that journey. The team also highlighted the work experience programme that is on offer every year.

Barr said: “It’s great to be able to engage with the young people in our communities and share with them our passion for rearing Scottish salmon.

“Visiting schools and sparking pupils’ curiosity for the sector is vital in making aquaculture careers more accessible to them.”