Diageo and Springboard are delighted to renew their long-standing partnership to deliver the Learning for Life programme for a further three years and continue its mission to empower individuals and future-proof the hospitality talent pipeline nationwide.

Now in its 11th year, the renewed partnership will introduce new digital courses, widening access to vital industry training as the sector continues to respond to recruitment challenges and rising National Insurance contributions. Springboard is expanding its support services to ensure that no one is left behind, delivering practical pathways to re-employment and career progression throughout the hospitality industry.

The Learning for Life programme, through flexible and tailored delivery models, also plays a vital role in attracting and nurturing diverse talent, equipping participants from a variety of backgrounds for rewarding roles across the sector.

A major Learning for Life highlight for 2025 is the highly anticipated opening of the Guinness Open Gate Brewery in London’s historic Covent Garden – a £73 million investment set to become a cultural and educational hub, creating 250 new jobs and hosting training initiatives in partnership with Springboard. This new site reflects the enduring spirit of innovation at the heart of Learning for Life, opening doors to unique opportunities for industry newcomers and established professionals alike.

Gillian Dalziel, Learning for Life Programme Manager at Diageo, added: “Diageo is proud to continue to partner with Springboard to deliver Learning for Life for another three years. The hospitality sector is facing real challenges with staffing, and this award-winning programme gives people the skills and confidence to build a future in the industry while helping businesses find the talent they need.

Our digital offering and upcoming opening of Open Gate Brewery in London expands the accessibility of the programme even further. I look forward to our continued work together to evolve the programme in our shared goal to support the long-term prosperity of the hospitality industry and improve social mobility.”

Summing up the partnership’s impact, Chris Gamm, CEO of Springboard, said, ““For 35 years, Springboard has changed lives by helping people from every background unlock their potential and find brighter futures. As we mark more than a decade of impact with Diageo, we reaffirm our commitment to shaping the hospitality workforce for generations to come.”