Customers first in Moray Speyside

Tourism and Hospitality is vital to the Moray economy.

Moray offers great experiences in leisure, wildlife, fishing, attractions, history, whisky, golf and more. In order to make these experiences excellent, businesses must provide the best welcome, the best quality and above all the best service.

This can be achieved by ensuring that all staff have the knowledge and skills to perform their role effortlessly. The need for a strong workforce to realise business growth aims has been identified by local industry. During research completed in 2009, (Hospitality Skills Report) findings showed that employers need staff with skills in Customer Service and Leadership and Management.

As a direct result of this research with local industry, the Customers 1st project was proposed. In essence, Customers 1st aims to provide flexible, affordable skills training and professional development.

Customers 1st offers two key course options, starting September 2011, which are designed to provide maximum benefit to businesses and employees.

  • SQA Level 3 in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership aims to enhance and develop the leadership and supervisory skills of candidates in or aspiring to lead teams in the workplace. Assessment is carried out in the workplace with regular tutorial visits and online support.
  • City and Guilds Level 1 in Introduction to the Hospitality Industry is an 18 week foundation level course requiring 2 days college attendance per week. Candidates will be taught the essentials of hospitality including customer service, food service, food preparation & cooking and REHIS Elementary Food Hygiene. This provides an excellent foundation of knowledge for entry level employees or those who wish to progress within your company.

Both courses are available free to West of Moray businesses and can provide an excellent opportunity to ensure staff are trained quickly and effectively. Funded through the structural funds of the European Social Funding scheme match-funded by Moray College, the project has been approved to run until June 2012.

For more info:

Lauren Bochel

Telephone: 01343 576346 Email: lauren.bochel@moray.uhi.ac.uk