September 2015 16
Blessington Further Education and Training Centre recently ran a QQI Level 4 Catering Support course under the BTEI programme. This Major 4M2805 Award commenced in February 2015 and concluded in early June, in time for graduates to enter employment during the busy Summer season or to progress for further education or training.
The course was developed in response to well researched skills deficits identified in the Hospitality and Tourism sectors, named areas of growth in the Mid East by Forfas, and as 'opportunity sectors' in the recent report from Co. Wicklow’s Economic Think Tank. Accommodation and Food services account for significant levels of employment in Counties Kildare and Wicklow, higher than the national average.
KWETB developed a new Programme Descriptor for the Award, the descriptor was designed so learners would acquire a broad range of skills, knowledge and competencies to support catering and hospitality operations and to work in a professional environment. The Programme was broken into three Programme Modules containing integrated content: Practical Catering Skills, Core Competencies and Work Experience. Pre-development work involved Tutors working closely with the Co-ordinator to design briefs and to develop assessment schedules and schemes of work. They continue to work closely and flexibly together which has proved to be vital for the delivery of this course.
Students attend the Centre three days a week from 9.30am to 4.30pm and for four Saturdays. The course consists of a variety of theory and practical sessions, with the class doing one practical session in the kitchen environment for four hours one afternoon per week. Key to the success of the course is the links and engagement with employers in this sector. Local hotels and catering operations have been very accommodating and generous with their time and expertise.
Bewleys trained students in Barista Skills at their Training Centre. Students have had site visits and tours to professional kitchens including Kilashee House, Rathsallagh, Russborough, Naas Hospital, Tallaght Institute of Technology and many others. There have been guest speakers including an Artisan Chef and Recruitment Consultant. Students have sourced work placements in a wide variety of settings.
The course, designed as a pilot course in response to skills deficits locally, has proved to be highly successful, and will run again in September building on the excellent links made with employers.
For further information, contact Annette Mangan, Course Co-ordinator 045 851494 or Mary Mooty, Projects Officer 0404 60500.
Meeting the needs of the Catering and Hospitality Sectors