Guinness Learning for Life: Community empowerment through EDI training

The Guinness Learning for Life Culinary Arts Programme is a skills programme provided by TU Dublin’s School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology (SCAFT). It is funded by Diageo Ireland. Established in 1941, the School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology is Ireland’s oldest and largest provider of culinary education. Diageo, who own Guinness, is a global leader in premium drinks.

Context

The Guinness Learning for Life Programme is a collaborative initiative designed to equip individuals facing educational and employment barriers with the necessary tools to secure jobs in the hospitality and tourism sectors. The programme attracts a mix of students from various nationalities and backgrounds including migrants, mature students, and early school leavers, reflecting diversity and global trends. This initiative began as a commitment by Diageo and TU Dublin to secure equitable access to opportunities for marginalised members of the community while attracting new talent into the industry.

Implementation

The Guinness Learning for Life Programme has been delivered in partnership with TU Dublin since 2020, integrating theoretical knowledge with industry practice. The Programme lasts for 12 weeks, 8 weeks of practical training in TU Dublin’s kitchens and 4 weeks of real-world industry experience. Once enrolled, students received culinary equipment for hands-on training. During the first part of the Programme, students attend classes, kitchen and larder  training as well as industry site visits and demonstrations. Additionally, they complete their HACCP & Emergency First Aid Training to provide them with the necessary skills and training to enter the workforce. Following their training, students secure work placements in restaurants, catering kitchens, or hotels to gain experience in full-time employment. Both Diageo and the TU Dublin’s School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology lecturers provided assistance during this process. Success is measured by tracking alumni employment and gathering feedback through follow-up emails with both employers and participants. Each year, the Programme is adjusted to incorporate current trends and industry insights. A similar development, the Hospitality Access Programme (HAP), was recently developed through collaboration between Diageo and TU Dublin’s School of Tourism and Hospitality. This programme includes modules such as Food & Beverage, Hospitality Studies, and Rooms Division. HAP has received funding for four intakes starting in January 2024 and finishing in December 2025.

Enabling Factors

A key enabler of the programmes is the combination of Diageo’s industry resources and TU Dublin’s educational expertise. Diageo’s funding supports initiatives aligned with its strategic goal of community engagement. Meanwhile, TU Dublin leverages its extensive teaching experience to create pathways to overcome educational barriers. Additionally, students bring motivation and commitment to learning and personal growth, reinforcing the success of the Guinness Learning for Life and Hospitality Access Programmes.

Barriers

The primary constraint of the Programme is the prevailing perception of the hospitality industry. This perspective leads to significant challenges in staff retention, resulting in labour shortages and a decline in student enrolment in hospitality and culinary courses. Additionally, asylum seekers and refugees face barriers to securing employment, including issues related to work permits and discrimination.

Impact on the Organisation

Students who have participated in the Guinness Learning for Life Programme express their gratitude to both organisations for equipping them with the skills necessary to enter the workforce. Participants reflect diligence and integrity acquired during this programme in their professional lives. Additionally, students create shared human experiences through a supportive environment where they mentor, coach, and inspire each other for personal development. Additionally, this initiative creates a talent pool of trained individuals who possess the skills and commitment to thrive in the industry.

Quotes

‘The program equipped me with invaluable knowledge, from basic cooking fundamentals to advanced culinary techniques. Each session was an opportunity to learn, grow and experiment in the kitchen.’

 

Lessons Learned

The Learning for Life Programme encourages diversity among its students, celebrating their varied traditions and cultures. Through culinary preparation, cooking and presentation, students express themselves through this art that transcends words. Participants show true authenticity, determination and passion.

 

Future Plans

Equality, fairness and respect will continue to guide the initiative’s continuous improvement and growth. At the same time, both TU Dublin and Diageo look forward to continuing their partnership and welcome new participants.

 

Links with UN Sustainable Development Goals

Download the full PANTOUR EDI report here.