People 1st gets green light to launch academy
Hospitality and tourism sector skills council People 1st has effectively got the green light to launch a UK Hospitality Skills Academy.
The Government announced yesterday that its bid had reached the "business planning stage" along with three others. The final four were cut from a list of 18.
People 1st chief executive Brian Wisdom said: "This is a great achievement. Success only now comes down to whether the business plan stands up."
As part of the scheme the Government will provide match funding of £5m for the hospitality industry.
Tourism minister Shaun Woodward said: "The Academy is much-needed and will raise the bar for professional standards in hospitality. This work has never been more important, as we look to secure a lasting legacy for tourism from the London 2012 Olympic Games."
The other three sectors to get the nod were chemical engineering, nuclear energy and the performing arts.
People 1st made the inaugural Skills Academy shortlist last year but lost out after a perceived lack of financial support from operators.
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By Tom Bill
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