The search has begun for recruits to join the Bluestone Academy, an ambitious scheme to support job and career opportunities in West Wales.

Potential candidates seeking a career in the hospitality and leisure industry in the area are being invited to an open day at Bluestone National Park Resort on Tuesday, 25th February between 10am and 1pm.

The Academy, which was launched last October, has places available for a 12 month programme providing experience within areas of the luxury short break destination near Narberth, providing in-depth and paid experience, training and the chance to gain relevant qualifications.

Members of the Bluestone Academy will also have the opportunity to join Bluestone full-time after their 12 months in a preferred department with advanced carer development.

“The Bluestone Academy is an important scheme for us as it provides an opportunity for those seeking a career in hospitality and leisure to join us and experience a range of roles, providing them with an insight into the different career opportunities,” said Debbie Rainbow, Human Resources Director at Bluestone.

“They will receive a salary, 30 days paid annual leave and access to the Bluestone employee benefit scheme. It’s a great opportunity to get into the industry here in Pembrokeshire and West Wales.”

Six academy members joined last year and have been going through training and experiencing work in departments including housekeeping, food and beverage and activities.

Zac France Miller, one of the Academy members, said: “The academy has offered me different opportunities that I can progress into. It also offers me to opportunities to complete an NVQ.”

“My future aspirations are career progression with Bluestone and the Bluestone Academy provides me with the opportunities to do this.”

Academy members have a personal development plan and a chance to gain an NVQ qualification at the same time.

Debbie added: “Our ethos is to be a sustainable business providing local employment and supporting the economy and communities here in Pembrokeshire and West Wales. The Bluestone Academy is just one way we’re doing this and it’s proving a successful way of introducing people to the important tourism, hospitality and leisure industry that we have here in West Wales.”

The open day will be held at the Blue Lagoon water park at Bluestone between 10am and 1pm on Tuesday, 25th February. Potential candidates will have a chance to talk to staff, existing Academy members and tour Bluestone to see what opportunities exist at the luxury short break destination.