In an effort to ensure that students experience a favourable working atmosphere, with proper rotas and conditions, the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has just developed a new code of practice for students working in hotels and guesthouses for the summer.

The code, which is adopted on a voluntary basis by employers, dictates that students are made aware of their responsibilities and entitlements in advance. Criteria are set down for pay, hours, uniform, time off and a final written assessment. Breaks and finishing times are made clear while it is stated that students should not work more than a 78-hour fortnight. Both students and employers fill out an evaluation form at the end of the placement to determine the benefits and drawbacks of the arrangements for both parties. The feedback will be used to make amendments to the code if necessary.

The IHF is urging secondary school students looking for work in this area only to apply for jobs in enterprises that employ the voluntary code.