Diageo rolls out new NI hospitality training scheme

Diageo has a launched a free 15-day training programme to help young people here access employment in the hospitality sector.

The Guinness Learning for Life – Gateway to Hospitality will give 18- to 26-year-olds targeted industry skills along with an accredited qualification and a guaranteed industry interview.

Speaking about the programme, which has been developed with employment charity Springboard and the Andras Group, Diageo corporate relations manager Claire Hutchinson said “We are passionately committed to supporting the hospitality industry and recognise the pressing issue of staff shortages following months of mandatory closures.

‘Skills gap’

“This programme will provide young people in Northern Ireland with the tools, training and skills in the key areas they need to gain employment and thrive in the hospitality trade.

“The need to fill the skills gap has never been greater, with businesses having been closed and young people, so crucial to the vibrancy in the industry, moving away to seek employment in other sectors.”

Sharon Thorpe from Springboard said: “We’re delighted to partner with Diageo on the Gateway to Hospitality training programme with the collective approach being to raise awareness of the hospitality, leisure and tourism industry, encouraging young people to choose it as a real career option.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to learn many new skills and gain industry accredited qualifications, all in just 15 days.”