Hospitality Students Gain Career Edge With Burj Al Arab Internship

Students from the Swiss International School Dubai have recently completed a week of work experience at the Burj Al Arab, one of the most renowned hotels globally. This opportunity is part of the Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Hospitality, a unique course offered in the UAE, catering to students aged 16-18. This program aligns with the school's International Baccalaureate careers-related programme and is aimed at providing a pathway into global hospitality careers.

The Swiss International School Dubai, known for its Swiss heritage and as one of the region's few boarding schools offering the IB curriculum, has introduced a Hospitality IB route. This addition underscores the institution's commitment to delivering a Swiss-quality education and facilitating access to premium university options. The BTEC program includes three academic subjects and emphasizes real-world experience, with students spending one day a week at The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, part of the Jumeirah Group.

A highlight for five students from the business and hospitality cohort was spending a week at the Burj Al Arab, where they engaged in shadowing and work experience across various departments such as concierge, reservations, housekeeping, and front-of-house spa teams. This exposure is designed to offer them a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations at an elite level.

Lisa Bardin, IBCP Co-ordinator at Swiss International School Dubai, commented on the significance of this experience: "Experiencing hands-on work in such an iconic and prestigious establishment as the Burj Al Arab hotel is invaluable, especially for those pursuing a career in business management and hospitality." She highlighted the benefits of shadowing in different departments, which provides students with a well-rounded view of the industry and insights into the operations of a world-class hotel.

The work experience not only enriches students' knowledge in customer service, booking systems, people skills, organisation, communications skills, and teamwork but also enhances their portfolios and CVs with references from the Burj Al Arab team. The Learning and Development team at Burj Al Arab supervised the students, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

The partnership between Swiss International School Dubai and Burj Al Arab reflects a mutual benefit. While students gain invaluable industry exposure, the hotel connects with the next generation of hospitality professionals. The Jumeirah Group expressed its enthusiasm for hosting students from the BTEC Hospitality programme, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase their establishment to a younger demographic and support the educational journey of future hospitality leaders.

With plans to expand the work experience and internship programme as more students opt for this route, future participants can look forward to engaging opportunities across Jumeirah Group's extensive portfolio of hotels both in the UAE and worldwide. This initiative underscores the commitment of both institutions to fostering practical learning experiences that prepare students for successful careers in hospitality.