Emma Jenkins is the HR Director of The Vineyard at Stockcross, Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa, Donnington Valley Golf Club part of the Peter Michael Collection and takes part in our Q&A session on key issues relating to the industy.

Q - Why should employers be supporting the new Diploma in Hospitality?
A - The new Diploma in Hospitality offers a fantastic opportunity for employers to be involved in education and really make a difference to the quality of tomorrow’s employee.  It is essential that with employer involvement we create a qualification that really adds value not only to our businesses but to the level of learning that is achieved and to enhance the skills gained before entering the world of work.

Q - The importance of Work Experience and the benefit it has on the businesses?
A - Basic work experience should first and foremost offer the student undertaking it a good basic knowledge of the hospitality industry and the variety of careers that are available.  To go one step further, it should open their eyes to a world where the only limit to where they can go is their desire to succeed.  As an employer we need to remember if we give them a boring task that does not inspire them, then they may not choose our industry.  We need to create interest, excitement and passion because today’s work experience students are tomorrow’s employees and our managers of the future.

Q - Why helping your local Catering College is important part of business planning?
A - Firstly it is great to build relationships with your local college as it offers a very real opportunity to the students to experience what the industry is like first hand.  It also gives the employer a great opportunity to source employees who have a passion and desire to enter the industry and it keeps you abreast of changes within education.