Springboard Programme: Diageo Learning for Life

Region: Manchester

Year: 2025

Before joining Springboard’s Hospitality & Bartending course, Leon was unsure about his next steps. Despite gaining valuable experience supporting his father’s business and working in admin during university, he struggled to find a career path that felt fulfilling. After submitting over 1,000 job applications without success, Leon turned to the Job Centre – where he was introduced to Springboard.

At the Job Centre, he met Curtis, who explained the Learning for Life Hospitality & Bartending programme. The positivity and energy reminded Leon of the vibrant industry he’d encountered before, and he decided to give it a chance. Through the course, he refreshed existing skills, built new ones, and developed confidence while forming meaningful friendships.

“Meeting Curtis and hearing about the programme reminded me of all the cheerful, happy people I’d met in hospitality over the years. That was the moment I thought, maybe this is the career I’ve been searching for.”

During the programme, Leon secured a restaurant server role, which boosted his hospitality skills, but he wanted more opportunities for growth. With encouragement from Curtis, he kept going and soon after graduation, secured an assistant position at a restaurant. The communication skills, confidence, and adaptability gained from Springboard’s training have enabled Leon to thrive in a fast-paced, people-focused environment, laying the foundations for a future in leadership.

“Springboard helped me build the confidence and skills to not only secure a role but to thrive in it. I now see my career like the Chinese bamboo story – growth takes time, patience, and resilience, but when it happens, it can be extraordinary.”

Today, Leon is on a clear path towards progression in hospitality and credits Springboard with helping him unlock both his potential and his passion for the industry.