AFWS raises profile of front-of-house qualifications

Published: 21 August, 2012

The Academy of Food & Wine Service is attempting to raise the profile of front-of-house vocational qualifications as an alternative for young adults who are more practically minded.

The move comes on the back of this week's media reports undermining teenagers' academic efforts and coincides with the launch for nominations of the Academy's Annual Awards for Front of House Excellence 2012, which aims to reward and recognise young people showing exceptional skills and commitment to their career in front of house.

The awards also aim to offer prizes that include "valuable" work experience at top establishments.

Pledging support for alternative vocational qualifications, AFWS executive director Sophie Roberts-Brown says not all children are naturally academic and thinks the education system must continue to offer alternatives to young people who might not suit traditional academic subjects.

She added: "Many industries, including the hospitality industry, desperately need people with practical skills and good communication skills. Surely we should be preparing young people for industries where real job vacancies exist and offering suitable qualifications for these jobs?"

The AFWS, the hospitality sector's professional body for front-of-house service, works to promote careers in the UK's hotel and restaurant sector by raising the profile of front of house, highlighting the variety of opportunities on offer and encouraging excellence in the profession.

Categories in this year's awards include the L'Academie de Lanson Taste Award, the Virgin Rising Star Award and the Award for Excellence.

Other categories include the Savoy Educational Trust Phillip Thornton Award for
students or junior members of staff, which offers the winner work experience at the Jumeirah Hotel in London; plus the Worshipful Company of Innholders' Sommelier Scholarship, which offers an educational visit with advanced practical experience of vineyard techniques and winery procedures.

This year also sees the launch of the Wine Service and Food Service Awards, as well as the new Diamond Award, presented to an individual chosen by the AFWS board who is an outstanding personality in the UK hotel and catering industry.

The awards will take place at London's Vintners' Hall on October 2. To enter online visit annualawards.co.uk. The deadline for entries is September 21.

Printer friendly version