Tourism operator runs ACCESS course

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 7, Issue 365, 4 December 1990, Page 5

Tourism operator runs ACCESS course

BY

JULEE

NATION

A Waimarino-based, tourism-oriented ACCESS scheme is proving to be a big hit with its trainees. Co-ordinator Sue Allomes has based the Visitor Hospitality and Tourism Adventure

Activities training scheme around her business, Ruapehu Outback Adventures. Currently with five trainees, the ACCESS scheme covers communication skills, catering and food presentation, administration and clerical skills, building

self esteem, handling an accommodation facility and promoting an awareness of recreational facilities within the Ruapehu region. Sue has already achieved some success within the programme, with one trainee already accepted into the Army at the end of the scheme. The only stipulations made of trainees is that they begin the 14 week Course with a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Another course run along similar lines will be held early next year. Trainees' comments

include such expletives as "challenging", "interesting" and "varied"; in fact so diverse that trainees may not get the opportunity to exchange pleasantries in the course of a day. However, weekly group sessions and private interviews are held to discuss their progress. Their programme haS also been scrutinised by other ACCESS groups, including one from Te Puke and another from Raetihi. Trainees are preparing to inspect Raetihi's ACCESS catering programme in the near future.