Annabelle Ewing MSP, Minister for Youth and Women’s Employment, visited the Chippendale International School of Furniture to see for herself how young Scots can forge successful careers as furniture designers, makers and restorers.

The minister, who represents Mid Scotland and Fife, met Alice Holttum (35), Janie Morris (35) and Jo Meyer (42), all from Edinburgh, and Fiona Thorburn (55) from Balerno (pictured). All four are planning woodworking careers after graduation in June.

Annabelle Ewing MSP said: “It is wonderful to see such talented students keeping traditional skills alive and carrying on the well-earned reputation of the school. There is such a beauty to the work of these designers, wood workers and restorers and it is clear that this is a career where the methods that have been honed over decades and centuries can be combined with modern influences.

“I am delighted to be here and would hope that the success of the students I have met today will inspire more young people to follow this path,” she said.

Anselm Fraser, principal of the Chippendale International School of Furniture said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the minister and to raise the profile of woodworking as a career option.

“Many young people and their careers advisors are unaware that a nine-month course at the Chippendale school will provide all the skills they need to set up in business – and we also have incubation space where graduating students can immediately begin their own careers,” he said.

This year for the first time, furniture designed and made by graduating students will be exhibited at the Scottish parliament in June.