A new nail bar is opening at Queen Margaret Academy in Ayr to boost employability.

The scheme aims to teach pupils practical skills, boost their confidence and build communication skills beyond the classroom.

Funding of £5080 has been invested in the scheme by the Prince's Trust, which is putting the Palm Tree Salon together with South Ayrshire Council and Developing Young Workforce (DYW) Ayrshire.

The funding will also be used to set up a bike repair hub and a rural and horticultural skills course at the school which could prove invaluable to young people looking to get into farming or land management.

DYW Ayrshire project executive Claire Baird said: "We believe that the Palm Tree Salon project will significantly assist in the development of employability skills known as soft skills in the young people taking part in this project with a particular emphasis on customer service and care skills."

Queen Margaret Academy head teacher Tony Flynn said: "There is a sense of excitement about the school with young people, staff and partners ready to work together to make the Palm Tree Salon a success.

"The nail bar will make a big impression as we prepare youngsters for the jobs market.

"Communication and team building skills are transferable so there is much to be learned even for those that don't go on to have a career as a nail technician."