Food and drink, tourism and hospitality are at the heart of Fife’s economy – and investing in the next generation is key to keeping these industries thriving. That’s where Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Fife and the North East Fife Coastal Alliance (NEFCA) come in.
DYW Fife works to bridge the gap between education and employment, helping young people develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to succeed in the workplace. At the same time, it gives employers the chance to inspire future talent, highlight the career opportunities within their industries, and build strong links with their local community.
NEFCA is a dedicated strand of this work focused on the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors along the North East Fife coast. Through school engagement, business breakfasts, careers showcases, and workplace inspiration activities, NEFCA brings employers and young people together to shine a spotlight on the diverse careers available across the region – from food production and culinary arts to tourism, events, and guest services.
For businesses, getting involved is straightforward and rewarding. Opportunities range from speaking in schools and hosting visits, to providing placements or mentoring. Whether you can offer an hour, a day, or something longer-term, every contribution helps young people better understand the world of work and see the opportunities available to them here in Fife.
DYW Fife and NEFCA have already supported a range of successful collaborations between schools and employers, creating real impact for pupils and businesses alike. You can read more in their case studies below, which highlight just some of the exciting initiatives already underway.
If your business would like to get involved, or you’d like to learn more about how NEFCA and DYW can support your industry, please contact Samantha Dick at DYW Fife: Samantha.Dick@fife.gov.uk
Together, we can create meaningful opportunities that help young people thrive – and secure a strong future for Fife’s food, drink and hospitality industries.