Newry bartenders boost skills through hospitality course
Hospitality workers from the Newry, Rostrevor and Warrenpoint area have recently enhanced their skills and gained qualifications as part of the Diageo Learning for Life: Hospitality Elevator programme.
The Hospitality Elevator programme is aimed at over 18s currently working in the industry who are looking to increase their hours, level of responsibility and develop skills to aid career development.
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Completely free to attend, the course comprises of three locally tailored one-day modules and includes Diageo Bar Academy (spirits and beer training), as well as the opportunity for participants to be awarded with nationally recognised qualifications in food safety and customer service.
Claire Hutchinson, Corporate Relations Manager, Diageo Northern Ireland, said, “The Diageo Learning for Life: Hospitality Elevator programme offers those already working in the industry additional training, providing them with skills that can really help to further their careers.
“We had 14 participants take part in the programme which took place at The Bank Bar in Newry and the feedback has been extremely positive from both the individuals involved and their employers – we are already planning further Hospitality Elevator programmes for early next year,” she added.
The Hospitality Elevator programme operates alongside Diageo’s award-winning Learning for Life: Bartending and Hospitality programme which was launched in 2014 and has seen more than 1,200 unemployed people graduate, progressing into careers in the UK hospitality industry.
Michele McCreary, Programme Manager for The Springboard Charity in NI, added, “Developed out of established Springboard Charity models, and injected with exclusive Diageo content to support and enhance skills development in hospitality, the Hospitality Elevator course offers participants tailored opportunities to gain new skills, further qualifications and greater confidence.
“At the same time, it provides hospitality employers support to upskill, develop and retain their team members.
“This is an excellent chance for bartenders and front of house staff to improve their prospects and offers the hospitality industry enhanced opportunities to further develop its talent.
She added, “We have been extremely impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of all the applicants who have taken part in the Hospitality Elevator programme to date – they are a credit to the industry.”
Collette Lyons from The Bank Bar in Newry, who took part in Hospitality Elevator programme, said, “I had a brilliant time on this programme and really appreciate the opportunity.
“I learned loads over the few days and have gained new qualifications that will allow me to progress my career in the industry.
She added, “I am excited about my prospects and look forward to taking part in further modules and masterclasses which would be relevant to my development.”
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