The Lion leads the way in Essex

The Lion is the first public house in Essex to partner a key education initiative which introduces young people to the hospitality industry.

The Schools Hospitality Project helps pupils throughout the country understand the growing importance of the hospitality sector and also informs them about the many career paths on offer.  At the same time, the scheme encourages young people to adopt more responsible attitudes to alcohol.

Janine Rising of The Lion confirmed she is pleased to support such an important initiative, particularly as millions of young people go on to part-time or full-time employment in the hospitality sector.  It is therefore vital that they understand how the UK now depends upon tourism, catering and other areas of the industry.

Janine also supports the project's emphasis on good customer service as a key ingredient of success in any hospitality-based enterprise.

Moreover, as a business active in the licensed retail sector, The Lion is delighted that the classroom materials distributed free to its partner school, Ramsey College in Halstead, encourage young people to adopt responsible attitudes to alcohol.

The Schools Hospitality Project is delivered in partnership with teachers but is not a government initiative. Its success is due entirely to the support of BII members across the UK. BII is the professional body for the licensed retail sector. With over 15,000 members, it promotes high standards, good employment practice, and social responsibility within the hospitality industry.

Cathie Smith, Director of BIIAB said, "We are very grateful to The Lion for their support which allows us to help teachers in a practical way while also raising awareness of the hospitality industry.

"As the project builds, our aim is to help young people understand that with hard work, a friendly approach and professional training, they can benefit greatly from a wide range of employment opportunities and, if they chooseto, go on to build an interesting and rewarding career in a thriving sector of the economy."

Patrick Gaffney, Director of the Schools Project, added his thanks saying, “We can only make a difference in schools if we gain the support of the wider community.  I am delighted that The Lion has decided to lead the way in this important initiative.”