Redundant North Sea workers who retrain as teachers will be guaranteed employment for four years under a Scottish Government scheme.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney announced up to 20 spaces will be available for former oil and gas workers who want to swap the industry for the classroom.
Courses starts in September, with successful applicants to be employed in Aberdeen or the surrounding area when they undertake initial teacher education.
The scheme is part of the Transition Training Fund, set up by ministers to help oil and gas workers at risk of losing their job, allowing them to move into alternative employment in other areas by making grants for retraining.
The fund will help people retrain as secondary-school teachers, particularly in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.
Addressing a conference in Aberdeen, Mr Swinney said: “The north-east has a highly-skilled oil and gas workforce, and we want to utilise these skills and offer those affected by job losses with a positive career path.
“By becoming a teacher, they can use their knowledge and expertise to inspire the next generation of young people in STEM subjects.”
The new Education Secretary added: “We know that in some parts of the country, particularly the north-east, schools are facing challenges recruiting teachers in certain subjects.
“That is exactly why we have made money available from the TTF to fund an innovative teacher training proposal.
“It will result in guaranteed employment for four years for up 20 people in the two local authorities.
“We have been working closely with the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council to ensure those interested can start as quickly as possible.
“I am delighted that people applying now will be able to start their training in the autumn.”
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