Education secretary John Swinney has visited Loudoun Academy in Galston to learn about the school's new projects.

He was shown around the barista suite and enjoyed a latte made by pupils who have received hospitality training at school with trainers from Ayrshire College.

Mr Swinney was welcomed to the school by council leader Douglas Reid and head teacher Linda McAulay-Griffiths.

He said: "I was very impressed by the way Loudoun Academy is developing learning and teaching at the school and particularly with the very positive relationships that are being built up with local businesses to ensure pupils have the skills that employers are looking for.

"These types of partnerships between schools, colleges and employers are key to ensuring young people are well prepared to go into the world of work and is something that the Scottish Government is committed to supporting."

Mr Reid said: "Educational attainment is a key priority for East Ayrshire Council and we are determined to provide the very best education we can to our young people.

"We like to think outside of the box and have worked closely with local businesses and entrepreneurs including Sir Tom Hunter connecting employers with our local schools to ensure that our young people are inspired to achieve and gain the essential skills they need to successfully enter the workplace.

"We have sought to ensure that engagement with business is part of normal school life and is embedded in the curriculum.

"Our ambition is to ensure that every pupil will develop the skills and abilities for a successful career."