HSI schools investment grows hospitality careers

HSI schools investment grows careers in hospitality

The hospitality industry’s training organisation, HSI, is establishing three new regional positions next year to support and grow hospitality training in secondary schools.

HSI’s Chief Executive, Steve Hanrahan, says the new positions will build on the ITO’s existing relationships with secondary schools and help to promote career pathways for students considering a future in hospitality.

“We’re aiming to help make the transition from school to workplace easier and build on Gateway and other partnerships with local hospitality workplaces to help get more qualified talent in the industry,” Mr Hanrahan says.

Hospitality courses are currently taught in more than 240 secondary schools throughout New Zealand, and Mr Hanrahan says to his knowledge HSI is the first ITO to commit such a comprehensive national team to supporting industry training in schools.

“Our investment in establishing a Schools Team puts us in a strong position to support the new Government’s initiatives to increase youth training and career opportunities,” he says.

HSI’s Schools Team will include a Schools Manager, supported by advisors based in Auckland, Rotorua and Wellington, servicing schools throughout the North Island and the Nelson-Marlborough region. An additional advisor for the South Island is anticipated to be appointed in Christchurch in 2010.

The Schools Team will assist schools with accreditation, training material and resources, connect schools with local workplaces, and provide access to the wider industry and involvement in industry upskilling competitions and events. The team will also support students’ pathways into Modern Apprenticeships, with up to 330 hospitality apprenticeship positions in 2009.

ENDS

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