WITH PIC

Eleven young Bermudians are looking forward to a career in the hospitality industry after completing a hotel training course through the Bermuda Hospitality Institute.

The students are to begin a work experience programme at a number of Island resorts after graduating from the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute’s START (Skills, Tasks And Results Training) programme. The scheme provides “a quality, career-based educational experience that prepares high school students for the opportunities that await them in the hospitality industry — whether they choose a career in the field, or pursue part-time employment opportunities while furthering their education or to supplement their income.”

BHI executive director Malika Musson said: “This is the fourth year we’ve offered the START programme to high school students.

“This summer will see approximately 20 START students employed and we’re extremely grateful to our members and the various businesses who have committed to holding positions open for them.

“Their support highlights our mutual goal of promoting Bermuda’s hospitality industry through education and training.”

BHI began offering the programme in 2011 and 52 students have completed the programme to-date. Open annually to high school students in S3 and S4 between ages 16-18, START consists of 180 hours of classroom lectures, site visits and special projects.

Instructors Joann Adams, Government Training Manager, and Lawrence Sticca, Government Training Coordinator, facilitated the programme this year. Students must pass a final exam with a minimum score of at least 70 percent to receive a certificate of completion. Upon successful completion participants are guaranteed full-time summer employment within the Island’s hospitality industry for as long as they are in school.

BHI coordinates all student placements annually. Students become certified in one of several entry-level categories after 90 days on-the-job experience. They have two summers to complete this requirement.