Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Hospitality Services Program Offers Speedy Entry Into the Workforce

Centennial College offers a range of programs that are specifically designed for students who are seeking an education that will allow them to launch their career in a short amount of time. These programs are typically two semesters long and result in an Ontario College Certificate.

Once such offering at Centennial College is Hospitality Services — which is facilitated from the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture. All students need to apply to this offering is an interest in the hospitality industry and an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older). It is also recommended that students have completed Grade 12 Workplace level English.

Students don’t necessarily have to know which area of hospitality courses or hospitality management they ultimately wish to end up in. Whether their interest lies in working with people, leading a team, interacting with the public, or working independently, this program offers topics that lead to careers that will appeal to anyone. Among these careers are: a room attendant, front desk clerk, food server, cook or a worker in the maintenance department of a hotel.

Courses in the program focus on food and beverage services, kitchen operations, housekeeping and front office skills through courses such as: Front of the House Agent, Room Attendant, Introduction to Math, Visitor Information Services, Safety and Sanitation, Life Skills and Job Readiness, and more. Students learn from faculty members who have experience in the industry and lead them through hands-on practice. Classes are facilitated from Progress Campus, which boasts not only a commercial kitchen with all the most modern tools of the trade but also a “living lab” restaurant and a conference centre that is run by students.

Despite the short length of this hospitality college program, students still get to enjoy a real world experience. This is facilitated through two field placements. Students spend two days a week in a placement at a restaurant or hotel, which gives them the practical experience to complement the theory learned in class. The field experience also serves as a way to connect students with the industry and professionals who may become part of the network to which students can turn once they graduate.

In addition to their hospitality courses, students also have the opportunity to take certification exams in Sanitation and Beverage Services, thus graduating with the confidence and required skills to work in this industry. Thanks to the respected training they receive, students have been hired by respected and well known companies that include: Swiss Chalet, Chartwells, Kelsey’s, Shoeless Joe’s, Boston Pizza, Moxie’s and Travel Lodge. The skills students learn are applicable both locally and across Canada.

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