New Training School will create hotel jobs

Over the next three years, The Gallaher Trust will invest almost £260,000 in supporting the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, a brand new educational centre focused on providing hospitality training and a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry. Backed by City & Guilds, the school will offer a six-week Level 2 Award in Professional Bartending (Cocktails) course delivered in partnership with Northern Regional College. Upon successful completion of the course, newly qualified bartenders will be guaranteed employment at the Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel. With an estimated 72 jobs available over the next three years, the hospitality partnership represents a combined investment of more than £1.3 million into local employment.

Ian Paisley MP, Chair of The Gallaher Trust which is based in Ballymena, said: “For us, facilitating a pathway to employment is key to the school’s success and we’re thrilled to be working with three of Northern Ireland’s leading hoteliers to provide guaranteed jobs alongside first class skills training with education and delivery partner Northern Regional College all of which will meet the tenets of the Trust.”

Ashley Douglas, NRC Lecturer, said: “We’re also excited to welcome the first intake of 12 enrollers in May, with a view to placing successful candidates into employment by late June. With no formal entry requirements, the course is accessible to everyone that can demonstrate a passion for delivering excellence and offers a fantastic opportunity for those interested in a career in hospitality to get a first foot on the ladder with a top Northern Ireland employer.” Further course intakes are planned for late 2021 and into 2022. Find out more at nihospitalityschool.com