Business

Bartenders boost skills through new hospitality course

Diageo's Claire Hutchinson (second left) and Michele McCreary from the Springboard Charity (right) with (from left) programme participants Marc Eccles (Northern Whig), Tara Meyler and Jordan Creighton (both Morning Star)
Diageo's Claire Hutchinson (second left) and Michele McCreary from the Springboard Charity (right) with (from left) programme participants Marc Eccles (Northern Whig), Tara Meyler and Jordan Creighton (both Morning Star) Diageo's Claire Hutchinson (second left) and Michele McCreary from the Springboard Charity (right) with (from left) programme participants Marc Eccles (Northern Whig), Tara Meyler and Jordan Creighton (both Morning Star)

HOSPITALITY workers in the north have been offered the chance to enhance their skills and gain qualifications via a new programme backed by Guinness and Smirnoff owner Diageo.

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.

The free course comprises of three 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 at Diageo Northern Ireland, said: “Diageo Learning for Life: Hospitality Elevator offers those already working in the industry additional training, providing them with skills that can really help to further their careers.

“We had 30 participants on the inaugural programme and the feedback has been extremely positive from both the individuals involved and their employers - so we are already planning further Hospitality Elevator programmes for later this year.”

The Hospitality Elevator programme, delivered by Diageo’s specialist training partner the Springboard Charity, operates alongside Diageo’s award-winning Learning for Life: Bartending and Hospitality programme and has seen more than 1,200 unemployed people graduate, progressing into careers in the UK hospitality industry.

Michele McCreary, programme manager at Springboard Charity in NI, added: “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.”

Lisa Topping from J.D. Tipler in Portadown said: “I absolutely loved the programme and feel privileged to have taken part. I learned loads and have gained additional qualifications that will allow me to progress my career in the industry.”