With the hope of enlightening students and educators to the “variety of careers available across the food chain, the routes to access them and the skills required by employers,” the competition will involve groups of 13-15 year old students from Saint Ninian's High School, Our Lady’s High School and Kirkintilloch High.
Going head-to-head to develop a new street food dish using a meat of their choice, pupils are also required to work out costings and create a supporting marketing campaign. Each school will then pick a winning team to go through to the final cook off later in the year.
The initiative follows the success of last year’s project, which saw S Collins & Son challenge pupils from Kirkintilloch High (East Dunbartonshire) to create a one-pot dish using their favourite meat. Skills manager at FDF Scotland, Moira Stalker, explained: “We are delighted to be running this project again this year.
“Even more youngsters will learn about the variety of exciting career opportunities available in the food and drink industry – including science, product development, engineering, marketing, nutrition and design. With partners, we are inspiring the next generation of food and drink leaders.”
Jennifer Robertson, health and education coordinator at QMS, added: “We are excited, once again, to be part of this initiative. It’s a great opportunity to introduce young people to Scotland’s natural larder and have them take pride in showcasing fantastic local produce.
“The quality and flavour of Scotch Beef PGI, Scotch Lamb PGI and Specially Selected Pork is second to none, and it’s important for young people to gain an understanding of the care and attention to detail involved in the production of these quality ingredients.
“I’m sure this year’s event will be a huge success and will play a vital role in raising awareness of various career paths within the industry.”
Senior partner at S Collins & Son, Stewart Collins, also said: “S Collins & Son is once again delighted to be involved in the ‘Butchery and Beyond’ initiative with an extended three schools taking part this year, showcasing their skills with fantastic local produce. This can only help and encourage the younger community to get excited about food, and the exciting industry that awaits for their chosen career.
‘’It is important to S Collins & Son that the next generation are aware of the variety of food and drink careers that are out there. I am also keen to help youngsters understand the variety of high quality produce that is available on our door step.
“We are committed to supporting the local community and this initiative helps bring the school curriculum to life. I am delighted to be involved in this challenge again and look forward to seeing what the pupils come up with!”