Hospitality education has, for too long, felt like a poorer relation. Maybe now is the time to really promote its importance.

Many have questioned whether hospitality education will survive another generation; whether it is sadly dying a death of a thousand cuts in the existing model. It has been a fair debate in the last few years to ask these questions. There is little doubt that change is needed and a new model established.

However, so often in life out of the darkest of moments comes a better era. This can well be the case too for Hospitality schools but there is a need to somehow find the road to change and really promote its importance.

It has long been an irony that Industry has felt frustration at how many students have left courses for other industries but the counter is that other industries have long understood the importance of the skills developed within hospitality. Hospitality skills sets are of immense value to many organisations all around the world. Pre-pandemic, many complained that the skill of building relationships had been lost. Today many are seeking those who can build trust and strong relationships with customers. It is no small wonder that they value hospitality schools.

It may well prove that the pandemic will have been a good catalyst for the industry as it has prompted a change in operators and in business. The consumer is yearning for stronger experiences, greater service levels and as cities change, so hospitality can sit right at the centre. Research is showing that many consumers today want to travel to cities, to visit more cultural sites and enjoy the great hotels of the world. This is a moment in time which could provide hospitality with a great opportunity. It will need great hotel schools to support the development of talent.

It has been a dark time for hospitality education but, with the industry’s support, it can see a new period emerge which is more progressive and where it can play a more important role. There is such a need for all talent to be developed from all groups. The hospitality industry’s success has long been that it is a meritocracy. A meritocracy needs great schools which will develop all talent.

It does not matter if other industries poach from hospitality; surely that is a sign of its potential strength? It is more important that the industry competes for its talent and develops all talent.

Yes, new models are needed. Yes, there is a need for more progressive thinking but the opportunity is needed. It just needs the industry to work together to support change.