Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick visited Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Club (ICTFC) at the Sarens PSG Stadium on Friday to meet with their seven apprentices to mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week (2-6 March).

The visit, coordinated by Skills Development Scotland, allowed the MSP to hear first-hand about the varied roles the seven apprentices undertake at the stadium when they’re not on the pitch.  As a long-time fan and a regular visitor to the stands on Saturdays, Ms Roddick took the opportunity to walk around the club and take questions from the young people currently earning while learning.

Scottish Apprenticeship Week highlights the vital role that work-based learning plays in supporting local businesses and providing a platform for young people in the Highlands to build their careers.

Speaking after the visit, Emma Roddick said:

“It was fantastic to be back at the stadium during Scottish Apprenticeship Week to meet the seven apprentices who are such a vital part of the team.  As a regular in the stands on matchdays, I know how much this club means to Inverness, and seeing the hard work these young people put into their roles is very reassuring as we head towards promotion this season.

“Apprenticeships are a brilliant way for people to stay and work in the Highlands, gaining high-quality skills while contributing to the local economy.  I was impressed by the intelligence and dedication shown by the group; they are a real credit to the club and the city.

“We really need to support local talent if we want Inverness Caledonian Thistle – and Scotland FC – to be competitive.

“I took onboard some of the challenges shared by apprentices and enjoyed my time with them.  I’ll keep an eye out for them all as their careers grow!”

The MSP has previously raised the importance of youth employment and community-led initiatives in the Scottish Parliament. She continues to advocate for increased access to vocational training across the Highlands and Islands to ensure the region remains an attractive place for young people to live and work.