Ayr Academy has launched its new Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Hub on Friday 29th May 2026, creating a central space dedicated to employability, skills development and wider achievement opportunities for pupils.

The day began with speeches from Laura Traynor (Head Teacher of Ayr Academy), Walter Smith MBE (DYW Ayrshire Business Ambassador) and Sheriff Iona Sara MacDonald OBE (Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire & Arran), who highlighted the importance of the DYW Hub and the hard work involved in bringing the project to life.

Guests were then given a tour of the Beauty Beyond classroom before visiting the FutAyr Building Project and Ayr Grow Zone to see the exciting progress being made across the school.

The Hub has been designed to provide a more connected, visible and inclusive approach to DYW, helping young people develop vocational skills and achieve positive post-school destinations. Pupils will have access to opportunities including work experience, volunteering, employer engagement and a range of SCQF qualifications and skills-based learning including Rural Skills, Barista Skills, Construction, Early Learning and Childcare, Leadership, Hair & Beauty, Enterprise and Employability, and Volunteering.

Throughout the event, Barista Skills pupils served hot chocolates and coffees to guests, showcasing their skills and professionalism.