Argyll chocolate firm expands to meet growing demand
Fetcha Chocolates Limited is investing in new equipment to quadruple its capacity, increase turnover and create employment.
The partners who held a pop-up event in Skye last week to help tackle childcare shortages on the island plan to build on a successful start with further activities.
Highland Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) organised the drop-in session with Care and Learning Alliance (CALA), UHI, Portree Nursery, Skills Development Scotland and Fàs Mòr at Portree Nursery on Saturday 27 April.
The family friendly pop up and play event provided the opportunity to share views on the impact of limited childcare places, and to provide advice and support for anyone looking at a career in childcare.
Kirsty Hunter from CALA said: “At least four of those coming along were actively thinking about setting up as childminders which is great news. Every childcare place will make a difference to a Skye family. The session was an excellent opportunity to share ideas and as partners we’re now looking at further possibilities to engage with local people.”
The group hopes to tap into future community events across Skye, including school and community ‘open days’ etc.
Kirsty added: “Reliable childcare and early learning is so important: for our children; our local workforce; and in providing rewarding career opportunities. Skye does have nursery job opportunities. As part of next steps the partners would like to work with local employers and senior pupils at school to explore placements and apprenticeships.”
The group has prepared a quick guide for anyone interested in a childcare career – covering work, learning, professional development and registration. It also has a list of partner contacts for further information.
Related Articles
Inspiring STEM education for Grantown pupils
Pop-Up Newton Room delivers hands-on learning thanks to partnership with Vattenfall
Funding award to Canna community visitor hub
A major project to create a new visitor hub on the island of Canna in Lochaber has secured a £20,000 contribution from HIE.
Argyll marine firm scales up with new high tech survey vessel
The project by Oban based Tritonia Scientific Limited will support four jobs and is forecast to increase the company’s turnover by more than £1m within three years.
Caithness fabrication firm gears up for big contracts
Gow’s Lybster Limited is installing Migatronic CoWelders that will significantly improve productivity and ensure consistent high-quality workmanship.
Funding boost for new Isle of Mull recording studio
The project is forecast to generate more than £340,000 turnover in the next three years and create three jobs within five years.
Lochaber fabrication firm in further expansion
The improvements will enable the company to continue its growth through increased capacity and efficiencies in production.
John O’Groats marks 15 years of ‘remarkable’ transformation
The transformation at John O’Groats has attracted millions of pounds in investment through private, public and community-led initiatives.
£250k boost for new whisky distillery in Caithness
The HIE funding will help meet the costs of plant and equipment and help lever in significant private sector investment to the project.
Industry and Science Skills Academy partnership brings cutting-edge STEM education to Badenoch and Strathspey
More than 200 local school pupils will be exploring robotics, mathematics, and space in Grantown-on-Spey thanks to a unique private-public STEM collaboration.
50 plus jobs supported by HIE in Caithness and Sutherland in 2023/24
As a result of HIE’s support, businesses in the area are set to see combined turnover rise by £22.4m, while international sales will grow by £661,000.