The success of hybrid learning
How wonderful is it, at your tenth anniversary celebration, to invite students onto the stage who truly embody the success of hybrid learning. Rosa and Ghiselain were both part of the very first cohort of on-the-job students and have since built successful careers. Bernie Thomas, one of the people who helped shape hybrid learning ten years ago, briefly looked back with them on those early days.
“It all started in this room ten years ago. This is where we decided to launch a pilot class in Hotel Management at The College Hotel,” Bernie explains.
Ghiselain still remembers it well: “It felt unfamiliar, because you didn’t know what the programme was going to look like. The challenge was that we had to explore together how we could shape it. The great thing was that we had a say and were allowed to give feedback.
For me, it worked out fantastically. The programme included a tailored approach. They looked at your qualities and how you were developing. I completed the programme successfully and with great enjoyment. I learned a lot about working with young people, and that everyone needs a different approach. I now apply that in my own hospitality business in Haarlem.”
Second home
Rosa says: “I was part of the first cohort of Facility on-the-job students. After completing my programme, I stayed on at ISS Facility Services. I am now a practical trainer and facility coordinator there myself.
The programme has not changed much; we still focus strongly on the needs of the student. I think the strength of on-the-job learning is that the place where you learn feels like a second home. You are there three days a week. You are part of the team and learn from your colleagues.”
These are two examples to be proud of. Within House of Hospitality, career paths within the network are a frequent topic of conversation, for example during the most recent Talking Dinner.
Bernie: “If you would like to contribute ideas on developing career paths, I invite you to sign up. After the summer, we will get started on creating career paths together from different profiles, and on ensuring that talent remains within House of Hospitality and the sector.”
You can sign up by sending an email to bernie@houseofhospitality.amsterdam.