A record-breaking 23 graduates have received Hit Scholarships which will allow them to enhance their skills through special work placements at world class venues such as Disney World, Florida and Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire.
In total 18 Scottish Apprenticeship in Hospitality (SAH) graduates and five, Diageo Learning for Life graduates received their scholarships at the annual HIT Emerging Talent conference which identifies and supports the best of Scottish hospitality talent.
David Cochrane Chief Executive HIT Scotland said, “HIT Scotland has seen a significant increase in entries for the scholarships this year. Clearly there is a demand for opportunities to develop hospitality careers. This indicates an attitude shift in young people, one that the sector should note. There is a rich pool of talent here in Scotland, and the opportunities to match those high-quality candidates are also on our doorstep.”
He continued, “We’re delighted with the high calibre of award winners from the Diageo, Learning for Life programme and SAH. I’m sure that they will all forge first class careers in the hospitality sector at home and beyond.”
Mark Baird, Head of Alcohol in Society for Diageo GB said, “All of the HIT Scotland Scholarship winners from Diageo Learning for Life and Scottish Apprenticeship in Hospitality have proven their determination and focus. They clearly know what it takes to build a successful career in Hospitality and Bartending. The 23 that were chosen are an inspiration to those who pursue our award-winning courses. ”
Diageo’s, Learning for Life Hospitality and Bartending course, is part of a global initiative which helps young unemployed adults into employment through practical training, work experience and the development of life skills. More than 590 participants have graduated from Learning for Life courses since 2014.
Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland (HIT Scotland) is a Scottish based charity whose mission is to assist people to achieve their potential within Scottish hospitality.
Caption:
David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland http://www.hitsccotland.co.uk (back row left) and Rachael Neill of http://www.diageo.com Diageo http://www.diageolearningfor life.com(back row right) celebrate with the 2016 graduates.
