The Fáilte Ireland Award for a Work Experience and/or a Career Investigation within the Tourism Sector

To enter this competition a student must have undertaken either a Work Experience Placement or provided a Career Investigation (or both) based on a career in the Tourism and Hospitality sector.

To Apply

Students apply to the general competition in the normal way. If your entry features a work experience or investigation associated with the Tourism sector you will be automatically added to the Special Category in Tourism. Your application will be eligible for any of the main prizes and will also be included in this new category - doubling your chance of winning an award!

Search for Work Experience Placement in Tourism and Hospitality or Apply Now!

There are so many exciting careers to choose from in this sector. Click on the tiles below to see what areas of the sector might excite you!

Below you will just some examples of these jobs:

  • Visitor Experience Guide - Provides guided tours, shares information, and enhances the overall experience for visitors at attractions such as museums, parks, or historical sites.
  • Events Manager - Plans, coordinates, and oversees events such as conferences, weddings, or corporate functions, ensuring smooth execution and meeting client expectations.
  • Surf Instructor - Teaches individuals or groups how to surf, focusing on techniques, safety, and ocean awareness, often in coastal locations.
  • Tour Guide - Leads guided tours at tourist attractions, providing detailed information, answering questions, and enhancing visitors' understanding of the site.
  • Hotel Receptionist - Handles guest check-ins and check-outs, manages reservations, answers guest inquiries, and provides assistance to ensure a smooth hotel experience
  • Hotel Manager - Oversees the day-to-day operations of a hotel, including staff management, customer service, budgeting, and ensuring overall guest satisfaction.
  • Hotel Accommodation Supervisor - Manages housekeeping staff and ensures that hotel rooms and public areas are clean, well-maintained, and meet guest standards.
  • Museum Assistant - Assists in daily museum operations, helping with visitor inquiries, exhibit maintenance, and educational programs, while ensuring a positive visitor experience.
  • Wedding Planner - Helps couples plan and organise their weddings, coordinating all aspects from venues and catering to d�cor and entertainment, ensuring a memorable and smooth event.
  • Commis Chef - A junior chef who assists in food preparation and cooking under the supervision of senior chefs, gaining practical experience in different kitchen tasks.
  • Pastry Chef - Specializes in preparing desserts, pastries, and baked goods, using expert baking techniques and creativity in restaurants, hotels, or bakeries.
  • Food and Beverage Manager - Oversees the food and drink operations in a hotel, restaurant, or event space, ensuring high-quality service, managing staff, and maintaining profitability.
  • Waitress - Serves food and drinks to customers in restaurants, cafes, or bars, attending to their needs and ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
  • Barista - Prepares and serves coffee and other beverages, usually in cafes or restaurants, and maintains the cleanliness of the coffee area.
  • Spa Assistant - Supports the operations of a spa by helping with treatments, maintaining cleanliness, managing appointments, and ensuring customer comfort.

Go to the CareerExplorer to research a full list of occupations.

Head over to TourismCareers to fully research the Tourism and Hospitality Sector.

In association with
Construction Industry Federation Fáilte Ireland Esero Ireland An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta & Gaelscolaíochta TourismCareers.ie GAISCE The President's Award
Supported by
Transition Year Programme Leaving Cert Vocational Programme Leaving Cert Applied Programme Department of Education and Youth