Pam Urquhart, Hotel Manager.

I work in the ever-changing industry called hospitality.

I learnt everything I know from those I worked with, and over 25 years have seen many systems and fads, but have always held onto the basic principle of making strangers welcome, and their time in my accommodation and restaurant enjoyable.

After working in this industry for 25 years, I began to question whether I knew as much as I thought I did about my job as general manager, as many of those I employed had diplomas or degrees.

The good news is – I do and I have had it confirmed by those who train and test those in my industry.

I started as a housemaid and worked in every department in a hotel, attaining the supervisor or head position in each department mainly because I looked for the easy and efficient way to complete a shift without compromising service or quality. I always looked after my team and my employer equally. And that is why I chose APL because it was efficient.

APL meant I could have my skills and knowledge assessed, without spending a great deal of time away from the hotel or my family.

Being older and returning to study can be a little daunting but my facilitator was great. She was always available, gave me the right push when it was needed, and came to the hotel to see what I actually do. She explained the criteria for each standard and made sure I understood it.

My assessor asked questions that were relevant and made me think about what I do in a day and why I do it. I was actually surprised at the many courses of action I use every day. The whole assessment process was a growing experience for me and I have gained more confidence which now reflects in my work.

I now also want more, and knowing I have an abundance of skills I haven’t even recognised yet encourages me to continue with the process.

I am now preparing for a Bachelor of Applied Management. From there I will look at where I want to be in ten years’ time, and am looking at options that would not have occurred to me before my assessment.

We owe it to ourselves, particularly women of my generation, who often put our husband’s career and our children’s education before our own careers and education, to be the best we can be and enjoy what we do in our working life.