Lakeland Dairies Employer Skills Academy
The Lakeland Dairies Catering & Hospitality Employer Skills Academy provides Level 2 Catering and Hospitality students with the opportunity to develop industry knowledge, practical skills and professional confidence through engagement with one of Ireland's leading dairy co-operatives. Based at our City Campus, the academy connects classroom learning with real-world food production, sustainability and hospitality practices, helping students gain valuable insight into the journey from farm to finished product.
Through employer-led activities, industry experiences and specialist workshops, students will develop a greater understanding of food provenance, sustainability and the role high-quality ingredients play within the hospitality sector. The academy helps prepare students for future careers by combining technical learning with valuable employer insight.
About Lakeland Dairies Employer Skills Academy
The Lakeland Dairies Employer Skills Academy has been designed to support students who are passionate about food, catering and hospitality. Developed in partnership with Lakeland Dairies, the academy enhances students' learning by providing opportunities to engage directly with industry professionals and explore the processes behind the production of high-quality dairy products used by businesses worldwide.
Throughout their studies, students take part in employer-led activities, workshops and industry-focused learning experiences that help them understand the importance of food quality, sustainability and innovation within the hospitality industry. These experiences encourage learners to think beyond the kitchen and gain a broader appreciation of food supply chains, responsible sourcing and modern food production practices.
The academy also supports the development of professional skills including teamwork, communication and commercial awareness. By connecting students with employers and current industry practices, the academy helps build the confidence and knowledge needed to progress into employment, apprenticeships or further study within the catering and hospitality sector.
Students will develop knowledge and skills in areas including:
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Professional catering and hospitality practices
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Food provenance and supply chains
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Sustainable food production
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Dairy products and ingredient applications
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Food quality and safety standards
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Customer service and hospitality excellence
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Teamwork and professional communication
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Employability skills and career development
Latest News
The Sheffield College scheme with employers to boost student career prospects secures new sign-ups
26/10/2026
The Sheffield College
"Supporting the next generation is essential to the long-term success of the food and hospitality sectors. We are proud to support students as they build the skills and confidence for successful careers."
Joanna Smith, Sales Activation Lead
About our Employer
Lakeland Dairies is one of Ireland's leading dairy co-operatives, supplying high-quality dairy products to customers in more than 80 countries around the world. With a heritage spanning more than 100 years, the organisation works closely with over 3,200 farming families to produce dairy products renowned for their quality, consistency and excellence.
Sustainability sits at the heart of Lakeland Dairies' operations. Through its Farming for a Better Future strategy, the organisation supports environmentally responsible farming practices that protect natural resources while ensuring long-term sustainability across the dairy supply chain. The programme focuses on areas including biodiversity, soil health, emissions reduction, animal welfare and responsible resource management.
Lakeland Dairies is committed to innovation and continuous improvement, investing in sustainable packaging, energy efficiency and responsible business practices. Through its partnership with The Sheffield College, the company is helping students understand the importance of sustainability, quality and innovation within the food and hospitality industries. By sharing industry expertise and real-world insight, Lakeland Dairies is supporting the development of future catering and hospitality professionals.