The Institute of Technology Tralee this October have just commenced the delivery of a new series of programmes in collaboration with the Dalata Hotel Group. 

Dalata is Ireland’s largest hotel operator, with a current portfolio of 38 three and four star hotels with over 7,700 rooms. Dalata successfully operate Ireland’s two largest hotel brands, the Clayton and the Maldron Hotels across Ireland and the UK.

Three programmes - Culinary Management & Innovation, Front Office Skills and Food & Beverage Supervisory Management were developed by IT Tralee in partnership with Dalata to meet the needs of the hotel group.  Dalata are committed to up-skilling and providing programmes that lead to qualifications to enhance the talent pool in their company.  The Head of School of Business, Computing & Humanities, Mary Rose Stafford said that the IT, Tralee is perfectly positioned to deliver niche programmes in response to industry's needs. “We deliver these programmes through blended learning, which incorporates online as well as face to face lectures which take place in Tralee as well as in the workplace.  The programmes are designed and delivered by a team of dedicated lecturers at the Institute of Technology Tralee, ensuring that employees of Dalata who participate in the programmes are leading the way in terms of work practices in the hospitality sector.”

The IT Tralee is also playing its role in addressing the shortage of chefs in the region by recruiting 50 trainee chefs this year on a variety of programmes, from one year Springboard programmes to two year Higher Certificate programmes and three year Degree programmes.  “The hospitality and tourism sector continues to grow and thrive in Kerry and the region and we constantly strive to meet the needs of the labour market by working with schools and employers to promote careers in the sector” stated Ms. Stafford.

Speaking at the launch, Áine Doyle – Group Training & Development Manager said “This is the start of an excellent collaboration between Dalata Hotel Group & IT Tralee which will allow us to offer accredited programmes to our teams allowing them to access the best in class lectures and facilities while working full time. Professional development and strong succession within our teams is very important as we continue to expand the group.  I am very excited to be working with Mary Rose Stafford and her team in IT Tralee and would see this as the start of a very exciting venture”

The IT Tralee Lifelong Learning team are available to meet with any employers who have specific training and upskilling requirements. Further details available from 066 71 91701.