Hospitality and Tourism Employment Academy

Empowering Women for Careers in Hospitality and Tourism

Welcome to the Hospitality and Tourism Employment Academy.

Our introductory training course is designed to equip you with the essential practical skills and confidence needed to help you secure a job in the thriving hospitality and tourism industries. Whether you're looking to re-enter the workforce or make a career change, this programme will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need.

Course Details

Our training programme is structured to cover all the aspects of working in the hospitality and tourism sectors:

  • Introduction to the hospitality and tourism industry: Understand the importance of sector, the opportunities on offer and the many entry routes available.

  • Employability skills: Learn how to maintain a positive attitude, build resilience, and master time management to enhance your career success.

  • Soft skills and confidence building: Enhance your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities while boosting your confidence.

  • Workplace skills: Acquire practical skills relevant to the workplace including how to deliver excellent customer service and resolve customer conflict.

    Support provided by WBB team on completion of the course:

    • Workplace Insights: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations within hospitality and tourism businesses.

    • Preparing for Interviews: Receive guidance on how to prepare for and succeed in job interviews.

What Can You Expect?

On completion of this course, you can look forward to:

  • Employer Interview or Placement: Our programme connects you with potential employers for interviews or placements, helping you take the next step in your career.

  • Certificate of Completion: Receive a certificate recognising your dedication and the skills you've gained, which you can add to your CV.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this course, applicants must be unemployed and not actively seeking employment currently.

Course Schedule

Thursday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th September

Women’s Support Network, 109-113 Royal Ave, Belfast BT1 1FF

9:30 AM - 2:30 PM

September - dates tbc

Rathfriland Regeneration, Chandler’s House, 27 Church Sq, Rathfriland.

9:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Meet the Employers

This is your chance to network with potential employers, learn about exciting job opportunities, and even secure on-the-spot interviews or job placements.

Tuesday 1st October, venue tbc.

How to Apply

Apply below and fill out our Application Form. You will receive your decision at the end of August.

For more information, please contact Women’s Resource & Development Agency (WRDA) at Phone: 028 9023 0212

Join us at the Hospitality and Tourism Academy for Women and take the first step towards a rewarding career in a dynamic industry.

We look forward to supporting you on your journey to success!

Proudly supported by:

Women Can Thrive in Northern Ireland's Hospitality & Tourism Industry: A Webinar Recap

Our Hospitality and Tourism Employer Insight Webinar offers a lot of insights for women considering careers in this vibrant industry.

Focus on Employee Experience to Attract & Retain Talent

The webinar highlights the importance of a positive work environment to attract and retain staff, especially women. We look at the need for:

  • Supportive Culture: Fostering a culture of respect, team spirit, and work-life balance.

  • Training & Development: Providing opportunities for staff to learn new skills and progress in their careers.

  • Recognition & Rewards: Acknowledging and rewarding staff efforts through bonuses, incentives, and flexible working hours.

Diverse Opportunities Across Hospitality & Tourism

The webinar showcases the variety of career paths available in Northern Ireland's hospitality and tourism sector. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Traditional Pubs: Una Burns, Manager of Charlie's bar in Enniskillen, shares her experience offering staff development opportunities beyond bartending, including cocktail making and social media management.

  • Visitor Attractions: Heather Graham, Head of HR from Titanic Belfast highlights the importance of passion and customer service skills in visitor attractions.

  • Coach Travel: Caroline McComb, Director of McCombs Coach Travel, discusses the industry's resilience and focus on high-end travel experiences.

  • Hotels: Rob Rees, Head of Culture and People at Hastings Hotels, discusses the industry's efforts to attract and retain more women.

Non-Traditional Roles and Equal Opportunities

The webinar underscores the presence of non-traditional roles beyond the typical "front-of-house" positions. Here are some key points:

  • Leadership & Management: The industry offers leadership and management opportunities for women, as exemplified by Caroline McComb's journey from Marketing Coordinator to coach company owner.

  • Technical & Support Roles: Caroline focuses on the diversity of the industry, with females in leadership positions and a range of roles beyond coach driving.

  • Diversity & Inclusion: We also emphasise the industry's commitment to diversity and equal pay for all, regardless of gender or age.

Building a Rewarding Career in Hospitality & Tourism

The webinar concludes with inspiring stories and valuable advice for women considering a career in hospitality and tourism:

  • Transferable Skills Valued: Employers value transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude.

  • Flexible Working Schedules: Many companies offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate work-life balance.

  • Be Upfront About Needs: Job seekers are encouraged to be upfront about any care responsibilities and discuss potential solutions with employers.

Overall, the webinar painted a positive picture for women in Northern Ireland's hospitality and tourism industry. With a focus on employee experience, training, and flexibility, this sector offers diverse and rewarding career paths for women of all backgrounds and skillsets.