Bluestone Academy new training programme
At least 10 apprentices have been initially taken on as part of the programme, providing a 12-month on-the-job training programme with he potential of leading to full-time employment.
Bluestone Academy manager Helen John said: “The tourism and hospitality sectors play a significant role in the West Wales economy, with many people and businesses reliant on it, including a significant supply chain.
Range of roles
“We have developed a dedicated prospectus for the apprenticeship programme, working closely with the training providers.
“Each apprentice will be given an opportunity to work in a range of roles at Bluestone to discover the opportunities that exist.
“Alongside this they will undergo in-depth education and training, providing them with the skills and experience that will act as a foundation for their career in hospitality.”
Apprentices, aged between 16 and 24 years, spend two months in six departments on a carousel basis in accommodation services, guest services, retail, front and back of house roles, working 22 hours per week from Monday to Thursday.
More than 80% of the course, which includes training from providers such as Cambrian Training, Gower College and PRP Training, offers hands-on experience, with candidates learning different roles throughout Bluestone, set up by the academy last year and employing more than 800 people.
Developing skills
Upon successful completion, apprentices, as well as earning a salary while training, are awarded industry recognised Hospitality Level 2 or Professional Commis Chef Level 2 qualifications, designed to set them up for a career in the hospitality sector.
John added: “The programme aims to develop the skills needed for hospitality workers in West Wales and while they’ll train and work at Bluestone, the skills they learn can easily be transferred to other roles within the industry in the area.”
Applications for the Hospitality and Commis Chef Apprentices programmes and applications must be made by 29 August with successful applicants beginning their roles in early September.
