The Sandals Foundation in partnership with The University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus has successfully hosted its Dining Etiquette Session, equipping 302 secondary school students with essential skills for professional and social success. As part of the Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges (PTFTC) programme, the session provided hands-on training in formal dining, professional decorum, and social graces. Students from schools twelve schools in Barbados including Alleyne School, Coleridge and Parry, Christ Church Foundation School, Frederick Smith Secondary, Graydon Sealy Secondary, Lester Vaughan, Parkinson Memorial, Princess Margaret Secondary, St. George Secondary, Springer Memorial, The Ellerslie School and The St. Michael School, took part in the initiative, benefiting from expert guidance in key codes of conduct in a business and social setting.

“The session reaches beyond social graces at the table,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation. “It’s about building confidence and teaching young people how to carry themselves in any setting. At the Sandals Foundation, we believe education isn’t just about books and exams, it’s also about giving students the real-world skills they need to succeed. Whether it’s in a job interview, a business meeting, or even a social gathering, knowing how to present yourself can open doors and create opportunities.”

The training, facilitated in partnership with The UWI Global Campus, refined students' communication and interpersonal skills, reinforcing their ability to navigate formal and business environments. The workshops culminated in a practical dining experience, where students applied their newly acquired etiquette knowledge in a real-world setting.

“Dining etiquette is just one element of professional readiness,” said Sandra Griffith-Carrington, Coordinator, PTFTC Programme. “The session teaches students the value of respect, attention to detail, and the importance of making a positive impression, skills that will serve them well beyond the dining table.  In the 21st century, business etiquette remains crucial for fostering positive relationships, building trust, and promoting a professional environment.  Etiquette embraces emotional intelligence and showing respect and understanding for different cultures; thus this session not only teaches the students the rudiment of fine dining but is geared to equipping the students with the relevant employability/“soft” skills needed for them to succeed. The session teaches students the importance of paying attention to detail, making a positive impression, effective communication – knowing what topics are suitable at the dining table and what are not, the protocol when meeting with dignitaries - all  skills that will serve them well beyond the dining table.”

With a strong track record of fostering educational and personal development across the Caribbean, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International remains committed to nurturing key transferable skills amongst young people - preparing them for the various roles they will play in the world ahead.