A new nail bar and bike repair hub will open in two East Ayrshire schools to boost employability.

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

Pupils at Cumnock Academy can learn first class manicure skills at the Nail Wonder bar and at Auchinleck, a Bike Maintenance Xtreme (BMX) cycle repair facility will give pupils a hands on experience of checking, repairing and maintaining bikes.

With the support of the Ayrshire College, the pupils will also be able to gain qualifications in a number of related areas.

The projects are funded and provided by Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire (DYW) and Prince's Trust Scotland Development Awards, through the Scottish Government's Cashback for Communities programme.

The depute provost Claire Leitch said: "I've been aware of similar successful projects and was delighted to be asked to launch two of our own in East Ayrshire. I'm certain they will be a big success.

"It's always fantastic to see the enthusiasm and commitment coming from young people, especially when a project is a bit different to school life and allows them to see potential for employment once their educational journey has ended."