Students get a ‘taste’ of working in the Hospitality and Tourism sectors
On Thursday 14th February, a total of 170 pupils from 9 schools across the Falkirk area, were given the rare opportunity to experience, first hand, what it is to work in the world of Scottish hospitality, food and tourism.
Springboard, the charity dedicated to helping young, unemployed and disadvantaged people improve their prospects in life through a career in hospitality, leisure and tourism coordinated 170 pupils at S2 grade sampling this exciting industry whilst encouraging the pupils to think about Hospitality as a career of choice.
Funded by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and kindly hosted by Forth Valley College, this event was supported by an exciting line-up of organisations each committed to providing interactive workshops and support on the day, these included; Historic Environment Scotland, Forth Valley College, Gather & Gather, VisitScotland, Macdonald Hotels, Falkirk Community Trust, Colessio Hotel and Cameron House Hotel.
Vicki Sutherland, Head of East Region at Springboard, said: “Pupils were very hands-on during the event and took part in a series of skills-challenges including: practical cookery; leisure services, customer service, ‘mocktail’ making, and event planning to name but a few.”
Adding: “The event not only showcased the industry at its very best but also linked directly to Curriculum for Excellence and in particular the Developing the Young Workforce agenda which exists to bring together education and industry. It’s a fantastic chance for us to demonstrate the breadth of opportunities the hospitality industry has to offer in Scotland.”
Amanda McDade, Careers & Education Manager at Springboard went on to add, “Events like this are a fantastic way to raise the profile of an exciting and varied industry with real job prospects. Bringing together future potential recruits with Industry employers. It will also draw pupil’s attention to the many local opportunities that exist in the sector.”
The Springboard Charity helps young, unemployed and disadvantaged people improve their prospects in life through a career in hospitality, leisure and tourism.
Springboard provides a range of opportunities for sustainable employment, or vibrant careers in hospitality, leisure and tourism through;
· Free specialist careers information
· Taster work experience opportunities
· Development programmes to help maximise the chances of obtaining sustainable employment
· Pre-employment and mentoring programmes
· Educational teaching resources, information, support and student activities to teachers in schools and college
Springboard equips people with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve their potential.
Springboard also works closely with the industry to help attract more talent and address skills shortages. In doing so, it has the support of over 180 different industry establishments and suppliers.
For more information about Springboard, visit www.springboard.uk.net