Inspiring the next generation of hospitality, leisure and tourism talent

Food and drink, tourism, and hospitality are at the heart of Fife’s economy and investing in the next generation of talent is essential to keep these industries thriving for years to come.   

DYW Fife (Developing the Young Workforce) helps young people make the move from education into employment. Through its NEFCA project (North East Fife Coastal Alliance), it’s also making sure that local businesses have access to the skills and workforce they need to secure future growth.   

Launched in November 2024, NEFCA is a strategic network that brings together local business from the hospitality, tourism, food and drink, and heritage sectors, with partner secondary schools in the area.   

NEFCA’s first year – achievements and impact  

• Connected with over 168 local employers, including The Old Course Hotel, Pratis Barns, Fife College and many others.   

• Reached more than 9,000 students from the four local secondary schools: Madras College, Waid Academy, Bell Baxter High School, and Levenmouth Academy.  

• Organised 60 work experience placements and 200 volunteering opportunities, giving young people practical, hands-on experience in the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors.  

• Supported 496 pupils in enterprise activities and awarded 6,040 industry-aligned qualifications.  

• Offered targeted support for young people facing barriers to employment, resulting in increased confidence, skills development, and job opportunities.   

• Piloted innovative projects such as the Tourism Hub, Health & Beauty Pathways, and Caddie Academy, each demonstrating strong potential for scalability and long-term positive economic impact.  

Reflecting the Programme, Sam Dick, Business Engagement Officer said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to be part of NEFCA. By working in close collaboration with local schools and industry partners, we’ve helped young people develop hands-on skills, boost their confidence and discover a wide range of career opportunities. At the same time, local employers have benefited from a fresh pool of enthusiastic young talent, helping to build the skills our hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors need for the future. It’s a win win for all involved!”   

Thanks to all the employers in the strategy team: 

• The Old Course hotel & Spa  

• The Fairmont Hotel   

• St Andrews University  

• Pratis Barn  

• Pittenweem Properties  

• Scottish Fisheries Museum  

• Invest Fife  

• Welcome to Fife  

• Food from Fife  

• Balcaskie Estate  

• We are Zest St Andrews  

You can read more about DYW and NEFCA here