Free Hospitality Academy Launched In Belfast

A new academy has been launched aimed at training people for employment in Belfast expanding hospitality sector.

The Belfast Hospitality Employment Academy is a joint initiative by Belfast City Council, Belfast Works LEMIS+ project, People 1st and Belfast Met. The Academy will train job seekers to take up entry level positions in the hospitality industry, with a view to developing careers.

The Academy is described as "ideal for those who are interested in working with people and willing to provide fantastic customer service, but who currently lack the experience and qualifications to get a job".

Participation in The Belfast Hospitality Employment Academy is free and will provide accredited training for 120 participants in food safety, health and safety, customer service, team working and an induction to the hospitality industry including Barista training. It includes a taster session, either a two week intensive or a four week part-time training programme and an interview session with employers who have open job vacancies. 

Councillor Aileen Graham, Chair of Belfast City Council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee said: "Hospitality is such a key growth sector for Belfast's economy – and there's a real diversity of roles within the industry. We've developed a fantastic programme of support with our partners which includes training in skills required by the sector, personal development mentoring and interview skills training.

"We've also engaged with employers to ensure that their needs are met and that the Academy is fit for purpose. We'd love to hear from all Belfast hospitality businesses which have full or part time entry level vacancies. All you need to do to benefit from access to a pool of hospitality trained talent with the attitude and skills you need, is guarantee an interview for Academy candidates."

The first two week training course has started and courses will run until March 2017 at Belfast MET campuses and venues across the city.

To participate, you must live in the Belfast City Council area and must not be currently employed. Further eligibility requirements will apply. More information is available on the Belfast City Council website.

(MH)