Through the Academy,
we will promote the
attitude that service
excellence is the only
acceptable standard.
to raise the profile of the hospitality and tourism
industries. The Academy will show young people,
aged 14 – 18, the tremendous wealth of opportunities which
exist within the industries by providing a range of education and
work experience opportunities. Three East Lothian high schools are involved. Pupils
from Musselburgh Grammar School, Preston Lodge High
School and Ross High School will compete for places in 2012
and teaching will take place at all of the partner institutions during
the day, in the evenings and at weekends.
Professor Alan Gilloran, Vice Principal (Academic) at QMU,
explained: “The Academy will provide young people with a unique
opportunity to access academic knowledge and practical skills
in ways that will equip them with the best chance of securing
the best jobs. However, not only will the Academy help some
young people secure a bright future, it will also assist in raising
standards across Scotland’s hospitality and tourism industries.” Ray McCowan, Director of Curriculum, Strategy & Academic
Planning at Jewel & Esk College, confirmed: “We are delighted
that some of Scotland’s most prestigious hotels, as well as high
profile international hotel groups, are working with the Academy.
Their contribution in offering work placements and industry
knowledge will be invaluable.”
He continued: “Hospitality and tourism is a vital component
of the Scottish economy. Scotland has great food, wonderful
buildings, a stunning landscape and a rich cultural history, but
often we fall down on our service delivery. If we want to be a
world-class tourism destination, then we need to equip a new
generation with the right skills and a fresh approach. Through the
Academy, we will promote the attitude that service excellence is
the only acceptable standard.”
Although entry to the Academy is competitive, it’s not just
focused on high academic achievers. It also opens up a range of
opportunities to a much wider group of talented young people.
Pupils will commit to a two-year programme in their senior
phase with a Hospitality & Tourism Industry Award or a Hospitality
& Tourism Management Award as the certificated outcomes.
Following appropriate completion of S6, pupils will then be able
to progress to employment or into a programme of further or
higher education.
Professor Gilloran concluded: “Scotland’s hospitality and
tourism industries not only represent areas of economic growth,
they are often Scotland’s shop window to the world which help
attract other business opportunities. Scotland needs its talented
young people to work in these industries and sell their country to
our visitors. Our Academy will prepare them for this challenge.”
We are delighted that the following hotel organisations will be partners in the Academy:
QMYOU / Sustainable Business
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