The new Diploma in Hospitality has been introduced as part of the Government's 14-19 education reforms and gives industry a real voice in the shaping of the learning agenda for the future.

These new qualifications are set to become one of the three main education choices - alongside GCSEs/A levels and Apprenticeships. They combine theory and practice to equip students with the skills, knowledge and experience they need for success at school, college and work.

Taught from September 2009, the Hospitality Diploma will make young people more employable in the hospitality sector. The Diplomas will operate at 3 levels; Foundation, Higher and Advanced. The Diploma will appeal to students of all abilities and aspirations aged 14-19, who'd like to learn about the subject in ways that relate to real life.

The Diploma in Hospitality will directly help the future of the hospitality industry by supplying talented and motivated young people to sustain businesses within it. Employers offering quality work placements to these students will highlight themselves as a great place to work whilst also benefiting from a highly cost effective way to source potential new recruits fresh from the Diploma. For more information contact [email protected]

Springboard is actively engaged in the promotion of the new 14-19 Diploma in Hospitality and is running a series of support launch events around the country to help businesses, parents and potential students understand why they should get involved. These events will involve short talks and networking with people involved in the Diploma in your area; hospitality industry employers, colleges and Springboard. Whether you are an employer, a potential student or a parent they are the perfect opportunity for you to find out more about the Diploma and how it could benefit you.

The events are taking place throughout January, February and March 2009 in Yorkshire, Liverpool, Leicestershire, Birmingham, Durham, Oxford, Devon, Somerset, Hampshire and Essex. Please do get involved with the events and with the Diploma in Hospitality. To find out more email [email protected]

Or visit www.education.springboarduk.net/14-19-diploma/diploma-launch