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Student Case Study

mature male manager in City Hotel reception

Gary Peoples

Course: Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Meet Gary, a former HLA student who is now working as Operations Manager for the City Hotel.

With a HLA qualification you can jointly study and work in paid employment in your chosen profession. Courses are fully funded by the Department for the Economy so students never have to worry about tuition fees!

I am now Operations Manager at the City Hotel. Anyone thinking about returning to education has nothing to worry about. I would 100% recommend the HLA process as you get on-the-job experience, while you study. Plus there are no tuition fees! Win-win.

What was your previous education?

I previously worked as a plasterer.

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What is your current job?

I now work as Operations Manager for the City Hotel in Derry-Londonderry.

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Tell us a bit about your career journey

I started in the City Hotel as Concierge, moved on to Conference and Banqueting Supervisor and then Duty Manager. The City Hotel very much encouraged me to do the HLA with the College and I'm glad I did, I learned so many skills that I still use now.

During the course we were encouraged to make a ten year plan and set ourselves goals. My goal was to become Operations Manager and I’m happy to say I've now achieved that.

Gary in the longue of the City Hotel
Gary pictured in the lounge of the City Hotel


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Would you recommend a HLA to other students?
Anyone thinking about returning to education has nothing to worry about. I would 100% recommend the HLA process as you get on-the-job experience, while you study. Plus there are no tuition fees! Win-win.

Follow in Gary's Footsteps

Make your mark with a course that excites you, challenges you, and prepares you for career success.

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