April 15, 2024

Why Should Hospitality Engage With Schools?

Ugh. School kids. 😨

Young people. Bleurgh. 🤢

This is quite often the reaction I get from some hospitality professionals - who (most of the time) are too busy to be distracted by things like this.

...

Which is unfortunate as following on from Brexit and Covid, the Hospitality industry really does need to think beyond the immediate, reactive "here and now".

I have had many privileged moments working in our sector, but many of the highlights has come through working on PanOut & PanOut2 projects with The Hospitality Academy , Zest Quest Asia and Otolo.

All these projects proactively engaged with teachers, parents, young people and hospitality employers.

The common aim: share the knowledge about what a great industry we are in and the many, many opportunities it offers.

Stepping outside of the comfort zone of our little Hospitality bubble can pay dividends.

I recently visited the wonderful Raynes Park High School speaking to 240 year 10s (14-15 year olds) who are about to start work experience.

Only 3 had considered Hospitality as a possible sector to get their experience.

If we are to have a future, we need to be reaching out NOW.

A drop in the ocean, perhaps, but we can all do our bit.

But are we?

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If this is a subject that interests you and you want to find out more how you could engage with young people check out the following podcast episodes.

Timothy R Andrews

Host of Talking Hospitality | Head of Talent, Jumeirah London

(Host, 2020– ) Timothy R. Andrews has spent over two decades in hospitality, beginning by collecting glasses in bars and steadily working his way up. After founding and leading a successful recruitment and training business for luxury, 4-star, and 5-star markets for 16 years, Timothy now serves as Head of Talent for Jumeirah Hotels London, focusing on team-building at Jumeirah Carlton Tower and Jumeirah Lowndes. His role includes creating recruitment pipelines and developing comprehensive training programs, which have helped reduce vacancies by 63% and brought turnover down from 85% to 32%. He’s also championed initiatives from apprenticeship programmes to staff wellness days, keeping growth and well-being front and centre.

Beyond Jumeirah, Timothy hosts Talking Hospitality, a podcast known for its direct approach to industry issues and practical advice. Each episode tackles real challenges in hospitality today, with guest experts who offer solutions that can be put into action. Through Educating Hospitality, he also provides carefully selected industry-specific training courses that align with podcast topics, helping listeners stay up-to-date and gain practical skills.

Timothy’s work extends into community initiatives as well, including his impactful efforts to support Ukrainian refugees. From guiding them through the complexities of life in the UK to securing jobs, accommodations, and essential services, Timothy’s dedication reflects a belief that hospitality extends beyond the workplace.

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