Six Bermudian trainee servers have graduated from an intensive food and beverage training programme at Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, receiving certificates and the promise of future work with the hotel.

The Princess said three of the trainees – Bermuda College hospitality management students Deontae Armstrong, Se’ Ri Joell and Khalil Simmons -- will continue to work with the hotel on a part-time basis, structured around their studies.

Those studying overseas – Precious Hayward, Tatyana Heyliger Blackwood and Aaliyah Simons -- will have server roles open to them on their return to the island after studies and during holidays, the hotel said.

Ms Hayward is an Acadia University student and a recipient of a Green Family Scholarship, while Ms Heyliger Blackwood is a York University student who is studying liberal arts and economics & finance, and Ms Simons is a student at Seneca College where she is studying hospitality hotel and restaurant management and is a member of the varsity soccer team.

The hotel said the eight-week course for junior servers is an intensive and accelerated food and beverage training programme in world class restaurant hospitality for Bermudians interested in a career with the hotel and is led by Les Ruddock, outlet manager at the restaurant, 1609.

Most of the training was carried out at 1609, where students were trained in every aspect of high-end service, including table set-ups and clearing, etiquette, VIP management and much more.

In addition to shadowing more experienced colleagues, the student servers also studied different cuisines, courses, spirits, wines and cocktails, undertaking numerous quizzes throughout the course.

Shawn Lekki, director of food & beverage at Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to put together this special programme for our young servers and give them an incredible foundation for their futures in hospitality.

“With this certification, our servers have taken our accelerated and intensive eight week course in upscale dining service, giving them insight and experience that might otherwise take years to develop.

“We look forward to working with these young servers for many years to come, and can’t wait to see what they do.”

The hotel said the training initiative is part of its continuing commitment to creating career development and educational opportunities for Bermudians.