Schools are the foundation of education, shaping the minds and futures of young people. While they excel in teaching core subjects, the complexities of vocational training, especially in specialised fields like hospitality, demand a different approach. Schools becoming Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) might seem like a convenient option, but it often leads to diluted educational experiences that don’t adequately prepare students for the real world. Instead, engaging with ethical RTOs to deliver courses like the SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality is the smarter, more effective choice.
Focus on Core Education
The primary role of schools is to equip students with foundational knowledge and skills. When schools attempt to juggle this with the responsibilities of an RTO, their attention is divided. This can lead to subpar outcomes in both areas. By focusing on core education and leaving specialised vocational training to ethical RTOs, schools can ensure that more students succeed academically while still offering access to high quality vocational training.
Real World Experience, Not School Based Simulation
One alarming trend we’ve seen is schools counting service periods in the canteen as practical experience for hospitality courses. While this might check a box on a form, it doesn’t set students up for success in the real world. The controlled environment of a school canteen lacks the pressures, customer interactions, and diversity of tasks that are essential in the hospitality industry.
On the other hand, ethical RTOs, like Equality Education, provide students with genuine industry experiences that truly prepare them for the workforce. These organisations have established connections within the industry, allowing students to complete service periods in real hospitality settings. This not only gives students valuable hands on experience but also exposes them to potential employers, increasing their chances of securing a job after graduation.
Building Confidence Outside the School Environment
One of the most significant benefits of engaging with an ethical RTO is the opportunity it provides students to build confidence outside the school environment. Stepping into the real world, away from the familiar surroundings of school, challenges students in new ways. It encourages them to adapt, grow, and develop the resilience needed to thrive in their careers.
Equality Education, as a leading provider of the SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality, prioritises student success and focuses on overcoming any challenges they might face. They understand that real growth happens outside the comfort zone, which is why their training programs are designed to push students to reach their full potential.
Avoiding Revenue Driven Decisions
Unfortunately, when schools take on the role of an RTO, there can be a temptation to prioritise revenue over student outcomes. Counting canteen service as practical experience is one example of how this can manifest. This approach not only shortchanges students but also undermines the integrity of vocational training. Ethical RTOs, however, are committed to delivering genuine, high quality education that truly benefits students.
By partnering with an ethical RTO like Equality Education, schools can ensure that their students receive the best possible training in hospitality. This partnership allows schools to focus on what they do best, providing a strong academic foundation, while giving students access to industry relevant training that will set them up for success in their future careers.