International Hotel School “boot camp” challenges hosted at Peninsula All-Suite Hotel
Matric pupil Brad Taylor of Fish Hoek High was awarded the coveted R225 000 International Hotel School (IHS) bursary to study Hospitality Management after earning top marks in a week-long “boot camp” competition, held at the Peninsula All-Suite Hotel from July 13 to 17.
As part of the Western Cape finals of the IHS bursary competition, Taylor and four other matric pupils were put through their paces in a series of challenges spanning various hotel departments – including working in the front office, housekeeping and the restaurant – as well as a number of “surprise” challenges – such as a midnight fire drill. After a week of demanding nine-hour days, it was Taylor who emerged with high scores in every category.
Each task was evaluated according to carefully selected criteria and adjudicated by an esteemed judging panel, who on the final day questioned the contestants about their motivations for entering the competition and their aspirations in the hospitality industry.
“It’s the best feeling in the world, getting this opportunity to jump start my career in the hospitality industry! Highlights of the week included working at reception – where I was able to talk to and help people directly – and meeting my fellow contestants. I had an amazing time at the Peninsula All-Suite Hotel. Thank you IHS for the incredible experience,” said Taylor, who will now realise his dream of studying Hospitality Management once he matriculates.
Runner-up Ashley Bent of Norman Henshilwood High was awarded a partial bursary to cover 50% of the fees for the IHS course of his choice, providing a significant boost to his hospitality career.
“We look forward to the boot camp every year. It is invigorating to see young, talented people who are passionate about hospitality giving their best. The finalists’ work ethic and commitment will serve each of them well as they pursue their ambitions. It’s inspiring to see the next generation of chefs and managers reach their full potential,” says Chris Godenir, general manager of The Peninsula.
This was the seventh year in which the Western Cape finals of the nine-year-old competition were hosted at The Peninsula. The hotel is a celebrated landmark on Sea Point’s Platinum Mile and is internationally acclaimed as the epitome of Cape hospitality.
