Gain skills for a job in hospitality industry

Young unemployed people from Stirling are being encouraged to sign up for a course which could put them on course for a new career.

Starting on January 29, the six-week Diageo ‘Learning for Life’training programme offers students the chance to gain the required skills for a job in the hospitality industry.

Along with an industry certified qualification on completion of the course, students also get the chance to gain on-the-job experience through a two-week work placement with some of Forth Valley’s leading businesses.

The programme provides coaching, core employability skills and specialist bartender training.

Since its launch in 2014, more than 1,000 unemployed people have graduated from the programme, with 81 per cent of them going on to further training or employment and 78 per cent securing long-term employment.

The course is laid on by the Springboard Charity, Diageo’s training partner.

Programme manager Elaine Muir said:“This course is a fantastic opportunity for young people looking to develop their future prospects and embark on a new career in hospitality.

“We receive a fantastic level of support from local employers, in terms of work placements and study trips, and we find this added level of encouragement and support is of real benefit to young people.”

John Thomson (25), from Falkirk, who graduated from the course in August, said: “Thanks to the course I have gained new knowledge about the drinks trade and the practical skills required to work in the hospitality industry – from coffee making, cocktails and pulling pints, to cellar management and stock control.

“I’m looking forward to a long career in the industry and I hope that one day I will be running my own place.”

For more information visit: www.careerscope. uk.net/work/ vacancies/256-diageolearning-for-life or contact Fiona Bingham FionaB@springboarduk. org.uk