SCHOOL pupils are being given the chance to take off in the world of work.

Glasgow Airport is backing a project that will introduce teenagers to the job opportunities available in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Airport chiefs have donated £40,000 to the Skills For Sustainable Tourism, a project created by charity officials at Scottish Business In The Community.

The purpose is to encourage school- leavers to move into further education, training or employment when they leave the classroom behind.

Scotland's biggest airport has agreed to play a major role and has already hosted a group of 15 pupils from Renfrew High, with two more visits planned this year.

The teenagers took part in an interactive session that highlighted the range of jobs available at the airport.

However, the airport owner employs only 450 of the 4500 on-site workers, so British Airways and World Duty Free also gave pupils an airline and retail perspective.

The £40,000 cash donation came from the airport's Challenge Fund.

Campbell Mackinnon, the airport's operations director, said: "This programme encompasses everything the Challenge Fund is about.

"It recognises the importance of tourism and hospitality in Scotland and also provides opportunities for learning and raises the aspirations of these young people, who clearly enjoyed their visit to the airport."

Bob Christie, of Scottish Business In The Community, said: "It is fantastic that a high-profile business such as Glasgow Airport, which directly and indirectly supports thousands jobs in tourism and hospitality, is funding this project in its entirety.

"By funding and participating in this programme, which is focused on achieving positive outcomes for those taking part, Glasgow Airport is investing in the future of the young people in its community and the future of tourism in Scotland."

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk