Stuart celebrates being first apprentice from McDonald's

STUART McCausland from Newtownabbey is the first McDonald's crew member in Northern Ireland to complete his Apprenticeship in hospitality.

Stuart began his career in McDonald’s Abbeycentre nearly two years ago and through the McDonald’s Apprenticeship programme has gained a recognised national qualification that has allowed him to develop a range of valuable and transferable skills.

Stuart reveals how working towards an Apprenticeship gave him the confidence and pride to do his job well.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“For me personally the main benefit of completing the Apprenticeship programme is that I have gained the confidence to interact with customers and deliver a higher quality of service,” he said.

“I was quite shy before, but after completing the training I am more self assured, which allows me to do my job better.

“I would definitely recommend the McDonald’s Apprenticeship programme to other crew as it enables you to gain a better understanding of key areas within the hospitality sector.

“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to develop my skill set and since completing the programme I have been promoted to a crew trainer. I am really enjoying the extra responsibility and the future looks bright as I am currently in the process of applying for the forthcoming managers training course.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

McDonald’s Abbeycentre franchisee Des Lamph said it is essential that businesses continue to invest in their staff to maximize productivity.

Des commented: “School doesn’t have to be the end of the story for people who don’t go into further education. I speak to my staff all the time and they are ambitious people.

“The national recognised qualifications in areas like food hygiene and customer service will help crew progress in our business, while those who use us as a stepping stone can take it with them. It is vital that staff still have the opportunity to improve their skills and this will ultimately support the economic recovery.”