Tourism given a training boost

The tourism industry has been given a training boost with a new project offering subsidised training for companies and their employers in certain parts of Carmarthenshire.

The Galluogi project is working in partnership with Coleg Sir Gâr, Gallu and the Carmarthenshire Tourism Association to help businesses provide staff training through short courses, seminars and workshops in course areas identified as a need by the business.

The project is based at Coleg Sir Gâr’s campus at Pibwrlwyd and is funded by the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013, which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. “Courses can take place either on company premises, at the college or a venue that suits,” said Project Facilitator Nicola Julian. “We can develop training to specific and bespoke requirements for businesses in the county, who come under the eligible geographical area.”

Galluogi has already delivered courses in new marketing techniques and cookery workshops to companies in the caravan, B&B and guest house industries but can offer much more, including customer care, social media, cooking skills, IT and restaurant service.

Nicola Julian added: “These courses are at a hugely discounted fee as they’re generously subsidised so we’re urging companies to take advantage of the offer, as the project is only running until November next year.

“Courses cost £10 per person so companies are able to support their business and employees by up-skilling staff to improve on existing expertise, as well as evaluating new areas for business development.”

David Simons, from Merlin Cottages, who attended a business marketing course said: “The session gave us a good start to planning our marketing as we expand the business. This was quality time and training for developing our marketing plan with our colleagues.”

To find out more about eligibility and training contact Nicola Julian at Galluogi on 01554 748215 or visit Galluogi@colegsirgar.ac.uk