Hunter TAFE Hospitality Students Crowned
For several students a career head start in hospitality will be a step closer following the presentation of the Hunter TAFE Foundation and Crowne Plaza Scholarships on Friday 17 February.
The Crowne Plaza Scholarship Program is designed to assist students financially to complete their Diploma or Advanced Diploma studies in hospitality. The program also links students with industry work and potential employment opportunities within the three regional IHG Hotels, Crowne Plaza Newcastle, Terrigal and Hunter Valley.
Hunter TAFE Foundation President, John Fitzgerald, said the Crowne Plaza Scholarships are designed to enhance and create opportunities for students in the hospitality industry.
“In addition to providing financial assistance, the scholarships encourage and build confidence for students to pursue a successful career in hospitality,” said Mr Fitzgerald.
Crowne Plaza Newcastle Operations Manager, Marina Spallino, said the partnership with Hunter TAFE has achieved great success for both IHG and its students.
“It is so rewarding to see the emerging talent we have in our region gaining skills through TAFE, and then seeing that talent continuing to grow and develop with IHG in senior hospitality leadership roles," said Ms Spallino.
“Many students have been afforded the opportunity to kick start their hospitality careers and the chance to work and experience great locations through the Outback and GAP Year Programs,” Ms Spallino said.
IHG Programs offer Hunter TAFE students the opportunity to gain incredible experience in the Northern Territory whilst living in exciting and iconic locations at IHG properties in Alice Springs, Darwin and Kakadu.
Hunter TAFE Graduate and Crowne Plaza Newcastle Employee, Erin O’Brien, is a previous scholarship recipient who also travelled to the Northern Territory with IHG to gain once in a lifetime experiences.
“Crowne Plaza Alice Springs gave me opportunities - the chance to travel to an exciting new place, meet new people and gain full time employment at an international hotel chain,” said Erin.
“The Hunter TAFE Foundation and Crowne Plaza partnership allowed me to put all that I'd learned during the Advanced Diploma into practice. Being a worldwide hotel chain with different brands and facets of service, there are numerous paths my career can take,” Erin said.