By Gavan Conway

Early in 2009, Outrigger in Australia formed a partnership with a training provider, Club Training Australia, to form the ‘Outrigger Academy,’ an affiliate of Outrigger University. Using Club Training Australia’s accreditation, employees who complete various levels of training, from basic entry to Advanced Diploma level, can be issued with a nationally-recognized, Outrigger-branded qualification. Employees may complete the courses by a combination of recognition for their prior learning, completing assignments on their own time, and attending normal classes. This is a great opportunity for employees who have not gained any formal qualifications, at the same time, preparing them to apply for more senior positions in the future.

Lauren Cole and Carolyn Bates, Training Supervisor – Club Training Australia

The first graduate of the Outrigger Academy is Lauren Cole. Lauren is a Guest Services Agent at the front desk working at the Outrigger Twin Towns Resort. She recently completed a Certificate Level 3 in Hospitality Operations. Eight other staff members are currently undertaking courses from school-based trainees, who combine normal high school studies with hospitality courses and part-time work at Outrigger, through to Advanced Diploma level. Outrigger receives payment from both State and Federal Governments to pay the tuition fees and compensate for time away from the workplace. Congratulations, Lauren!