ACADEMY
HILL
We focus
ATTRACT RETAIN GROW
— Welcome to our Academy where we believe investing in people is key to attracting and retaining top talent.
Our Academy focuses on the continual development of crew and staff, ensuring service delivery, upholding world-class hospitality standards, and refining etiquette to enhance the guest experience onboard superyachts and within luxury estates.
Offering a wide range of learning solutions, we encourage peak performance by blending training modules and with the Academy Online platform.
Service programmes are designed to support delegates at every stage of their career; from onboarding to role-specific training, hospitality curriculums, coaching, and leadership development.
We facilitate
Our Academy facilitates the development, delivery, and evaluation of learning through an enhanced learning management system – Academy Online – whilst leveraging more than 20 years of industry knowledge and leading experts to deliver a memorable experience.
HILL ROBINSON ACADEMY
WHY CHOOSE US?
— We focus on delivering impactful training for crew and staff looking to excel in their fields. Our courses boost skills, improve leadership, and give crew the tools to provide outstanding guest experiences.
What sets us apart?
Our programmes are crafted based on a needs analysis to elevate crew skills, leadership capabilities, and develop dynamic crew and staff.
Experiential learning
We use experiential learning to immerse crew and staff in practical, real-world scenarios to enhance their decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.
Online learning platform
Access Academy Online for convenient, on-the-go learning resources, complementing in-person training with bite-sized modules and additional support materials.
The training Tailored, trusted and accredited
We collaborate with our clients to understand the needs of crew and staff to choose which trusted partner to work with to deliver training in person.
Our Academy delivers training courses that align with the industry’s highest standards. We also offer accredited programmes endorsed by the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), we offer GUEST courses and programmes of quality, guaranteeing compliance with established benchmarks and industry best practices.
ACADEMY
BESPOKE APPROACH
SPEAK TO THE ACADEMY
— Our Academy uses a learning model to create a bespoke package that suits clients' needs.
We recognise the importance of delivering personalised courses that cater to learning needs. We value the connections we establish with our clients and strive to provide the best possible experience for them. We offer many clients an annual training schedule to ensure progress and growth. These schedules are designed with flexibility in mind and can be adapted to a yacht’s itinerary and plans. Our custom programmes range from half-day to multi-day courses, and our blended approach allows us to conduct training wherever a client is in the world.
Whether onboard, onsite, or online, our courses are tailored to your requests and requirements.
“We value the connections we establish with our clients and strive to provide the best possible experience for them.”
CONSULTATION
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
STAGE 4
Our experts will meet with you to understand the needs of your crew, staff, managers, and leaders.
DESIGN
We’ll design bespoke training packages and arrange delivery timelines in collaboration with our trusted partners and suppliers.
DELIVERY
We have a suite of resources for you to choose from, including: Academy Online, in-person training sessions, 1:2:1 feedback and coaching sessions, as well as Talent Dynamics assessments.
REPORTING
We report back on the outcomes of training sessions, ensuring a clear return on investment.
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
— By participating in these sessions, team members gain tools to cultivate effective communication, build strong relationships, foster collaboration, and promote personal and professional growth. Depending on their needs, we can deliver these sessions in person, on board, or through virtual meeting tools.
Performance management
Managing performance is an essential component of establishing a high-performing team. Learn how to nurture a culture of excellence by setting goals, promoting teamwork, optimising operational efficiency, understanding motivation, and developing strategies adapted to the challenges of your working environment.
2 hours
Coaching
Our training programmes guide teams towards achieving their goals, and realising their full potential. We strive to equip your teams with the knowledge and confidence they need to excel. Our ongoing coaching provides valuable support to ensure your team remain focused and continue to develop.
1 hour × 3 session bundles
Communication
Designed to equip teams with essential communication skills, this tailored course offers insight to operational coordination, guest relations, and more. Participants will learn effective communication methods through handson exercises and specific scenarios, ensuring teams are ready to handle any situation.
2 hours
Train the trainer
Explore the fundamentals of effective training and leadership by studying adult learning theories and methodologies. Gain invaluable expertise in crafting and delivering highly effective training sessions.
1 day course
Recruiting techniques
Our course is specifically tailored for professionals and leaders who want to hone their talent selection abilities. It dives into the unique skillset required to choose top-tier talent. The training will provide strategies strategies to identify candidates with the appropriate skills, experience, and mindset.
2 hours
Cultural appreciation
Empower your teams with the resources to thrive in diverse cultural environments. Explore cultural differences, evaluate the impact of diversity and inclusion, and learn about diverse customs and traditions. Give participants the tools to comprehend and excel with cultures beyond their own.
2 hours
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
TALENT DYNAMICS ASSESSMENT
— Talent Dynamics is the difference between good and great. This insightful assessment tool enables individuals and teams unlock their potential. The results help team members understand themselves and others better, allowing them to work smarter, build a strong team, improve communication, and increase overall motivation.
Maximising benefits from Talent Dynamics Team workshop
Effective teams are founded upon good, clear communication. We help teams explore this by identifying their talents, behaviours, life skills, similarities, and differences.
Recruitment
Talent Dynamics is a valuable tool to guide recruitment decisions. It explores a person's natural talents that complement the learned skills highlighted on their CV.
“An effective team is founded upon good, clear communication.”
Comprehensive support
Our Talent Dynamics support can be offered through the following:
1:2:1 debriefs and reports (1 hour) – gain insights into a candidate’s talents.
Two-way debriefs (90 minutes) – meet with a candidate and Talent Dynamics specialist to understand firsthand how they are a good fit for the team.
One-day workshop – interactive teambuilding day to explore talents and differences, enhancing communication and relationship-building.
HILL
MANAGEMENT SKILLS
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
— We understand that exceptional leadership is the cornerstone of seamless operations. Our comprehensive leadership training programmes are meticulously crafted to enhance the management skills of crew, ensuring a harmonious and efficient environment where the primary focus remains on delivering unparalleled guest experiences.
Coaching
Our coaching programme offers three intensive onehour sessions with a qualified coach. These sessions are tailored to develop and refine the leadership capabilities of crew, addressing specific challenges and enhancing their ability to lead with confidence and expertise.
Personalised guidance: One-on-one sessions that focus on individual growth and leadership potential.
Industry expertise: Coaches with a deep understanding of the unique dynamics of leadership in fast-paced environments.
Actionable insights: Practical advice and strategies to improve leadership effectiveness.
Alignment coaching
Effective leadership requires consistency and harmony across all departments. Our Alignment Coaching Programme facilitates a seamless transition between rotational heads of department by aligning their values, behaviours, and processes. This ensures crew operate consistently, regardless of which heads of departments they are working with.
Value alignment: Harmonising core values to create a unified approach.
Behavioural consistency: Standardising behaviours to create a stable and predictable work environment. Process integration: streamlining processes to enhance efficiency and crew comfort.
“Our mission is to help cultivate exceptional leaders who can
manage their teams with precision and empathy, ensuring that all operational efforts are seamlessly aligned with the overarching goal of delivering outstanding guest experiences.”
Blended leadership
Recognising that each crew member has unique needs, our Blended Leadership Training Programme is customised to suit a client's specific requirements. Utilising our Academy Online platform, we offer a dynamic mix of e-learning modules, interactive workshops carried out via a live video conferencing tool, and in-person training sessions.
Flexible learning: E-learning modules that can be accessed anytime, anywhere.
Interactive workshops: Engaging sessions that facilitate real-time interaction and discussion.
Hands-on training: In-person sessions that provide practical experience and face-to-face mentorship.
360 Feedback Tool
An invaluable resource for fostering self-awareness and continuous improvement within crew. This comprehensive feedback mechanism gathers insights from various perspectives, providing a holistic view of a leader’s performance.
Holistic insights: Gathering feedback from peers, subordinates, and supervisors.
Targeted development: Identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
— We partner with Seas the Mind to facilitate the delivery of the following courses.
Mental health and awareness course
This introductory course provides a comprehensive overview of mental health awareness. Participants will engage in peer discussions, dynamic presentations, group activities, and relevant case studies from the yachting industry and learn:
What mental health is and how to challenge stigma
An introduction to common mental health issues
Confidence to support someone who may be experiencing mental ill health
Ways to look after a team member's own mental health and support wellbeing.
MHA certificate by MH England lasts three years. 4 hours
Mental health first aid training
Enroll teams in Mental Health First Aid Training to cultivate a workplace culture that values and supports crew wellbeing. Through this program, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of mental health, practical skills to identify early signs of issues, and the confidence to offer appropriate support. With access to the MHFAider Support App® and exclusive resources, they become part of a community of trained MHFAiders®, equipped to make a positive impact. MHA certificate by MH England lasts three years. 2 days
HOSPITALITY
SERVICE DELIVERY
— These courses provide the tools and comprehensive knowledge of industry standards, enhance professional skills, and cultivate an elevated guest experience.
Service Specialist (foundation and advanced)
Equip teams with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to deliver outstanding sevenstar service. They will learn to refine their service skills, familiarise themselves with operational needs, etiquettes, and diverse communication styles, and gain tools to enhance guest interactions. 2-3 days
Cigar training
Delve into the world of cigar selection, cutting, lighting, and appreciation. Explore the rich history and intricate craftsmanship of cigars, broadening appreciation for these luxuries. 4 hours
Shisha/Hookah
Learn to create the perfect shisha setup and craft the best mixology pairings for an unforgettable guest experience. Covering mise en place and key moments of impact when serving shisha, this handson masterclass also details mixology pairing.
4 hours
Floristry and plant maintenance (modular program)
Develop team skills in flower arranging from curating and extending the shelf life of cut flowers to mastering tools and supplies. Learn about flower types, colour schemes, and efficient ordering processes.
1-3 days
HILL
HOSPITALITY
BEVERAGE SPECIALIST
— These courses offer expertise in mixology and beverage service, enhance knowledge of various drinks and cocktails, create personalised recommendations for guests, and prepare the teams to develop their presentation.
Mixology courses
Bartending: Mixology and cocktails (foundation and advanced)
Give your teams a unique experience by stepping into the shoes of a professional bartender. Learn about the rich history of bartending, bar terminology and the seven essential elements of a good drink. By mastering the basics, teams will be able to confidently execute recipes, set up a bar, and even create a signature cocktail.
1–5 days
Mocktails and non-alcoholic mixology
Bartending is far more than just pouring and mixing alcoholic drinks. It also involves having a comprehensive understanding of all the ingredients involved in the process. Our course will take your teams’ beverage knowledge to the next level, covering everything from running a bar to selecting the perfect ingredients for creative and alcohol-free drinks and mocktails.
1–5 days
Certified courses
WSET Level 1 – Wine course certification level 1
Wine courses for beginners. For individuals new to wine study, this qualification provides a hands-on introduction to the world of wine. Explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste while also gaining the basic skills to describe wines accurately and make food and wine pairings. Upon successful completion, teams will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.
1 day
WSET Level 2 – Wine course certification level 2
This qualification is intended for beginners wishing to learn about a wide range of wines or those seeking to build on the introductory knowledge gained with the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines. Teams will gain knowledge of the principal and regionally important grape varieties of the world, the regions in which they are grown, and the styles of wine they produce. Through a combination of tasting and theory, explore the factors that impact style and quality and learn how to describe these wines with confidence.
3 days
“Explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while also gaining the basic skills to describe wines accurately and make food and wine pairings.”
BEVERAGE SPECIALIST
Wine appreciation (foundation and advanced)
From wine tasting to pairing, and even identifying corked wine, this comprehensive course covers all the crucial elements of wine.
1 day
Wines of Italy
Understand the unique conditions within each region, the most important Italian grape varieties, and how to serve professionally.
4 hours
Wines of the New World
Delve into the evolving world of wine and broaden your palate by learning about grape varieties, serving techniques, and food pairings.
4 hours
Rosé wines
Learn how to describe, serve and pair food with the various types of rosés, from crisp and dry to sweet and bubbly.
4 hours
Sparkling wines
Receive guidance on proper glassware, storage, and temperature requirements, along with recommendations for food pairings.
4 hours
Prosecco
Learn the history of the grape and how to properly serve prosecco in the right glassware and discover the best practices for storing and pairing it with food.
4 hours
Champagne
Explore grape varieties and learn how to professionally serve and pair the perfect foods with this iconic drink.
4 hours
Sake
Learn about the various types and styles, the principles of rice polishing, how to assist guests, how to serve it, and how to use it in cocktails for a unique twist.
4 hours
International spirits
Gain valuable insights into raw materials, fermentation, distillation, and post-distillation procedures and explore international spirit categories such as rum, vodka, anise, bitters, and more.
1 day
Whisk(e)y
Learn the history and expert tasting techniques that will help you distinguish between the nuanced flavours and aromas of different whisk(e)ys.
4 hours
Barista & latte art
Prepare to become a coffee master, transforming plain coffee into artistic creations with fancy milk-frothing and mastering the art of coffee cocktails.
4 hours
Tea
Discover how to make the perfect cup of tea, from matcha and herbal blends to iced variations, and learn how to serve it professionally.
4 hours
Juicing
Learn how to extract nutritious juices from fresh ingredients and the skills to prepare delectable and healthy juice options.
4 hours
HOUSEKEEPING
— This training equips individuals with essential cleaning techniques, promotes attention to detail, and enhances organisational skills to improve the guest experience.
Valet and wardrobe
Teams will learn everything they need to know about valet services, from handling vehicles to interacting with guests. Additionally, the curriculum covers wardrobe management, where they will gain insight into the most effective methods for arranging and discreetly maintaining guests’ personal items.
1–2 days
Housekeeping
During the training, teams will learn to use a variety of cleaning products, maintaining different furnishings and materials, and understand how their work impacts the environment. After completing the course, they will be equipped to provide efficient and effective housekeeping services.
2–3 days
Laundry
To maintain an efficient laundry operation, it is essential that teams work in harmony. This course is designed to enhance collaboration skills, clarify individual responsibilities, and put this knowledge into action to provide a seamless and professional laundry service.
2 days
Ironing
Teams will gain confidence in their ironing skills with our comprehensive course that covers a broad range of fabrics, recognising their importance. This practical training will teach them the best techniques to excel in the laundry department.
4 hours
Surface identification workshop
This covers in-depth the damages that can occur through a lack of understanding of the surface and to to stop accidental damage being caused on board.
1 day
Cleaning chemicals workshop
Based on the approach: show-me/guide-me demonstrations and let-me-try activities. Helps teams gain a deeper understanding of chemicals.
1 day
ACADEMY ONLINE
— Academy Online is our subscription-based online-learning platform that includes curated content focused on professional and personal development.
With three tiers of membership, Academy Online offers a comprehensive range of features and resources to cater for the needs of all sizes of fleet, and skill and knowledge of teams at all levels. The platform offers interactive modules covering key topics like personal development, leadership, management, and compliance. The Learning Management System provides one source of truth for all training records.
Academy Online is the go-to platform for professionals seeking to upskill and stay ahead in their professional development and growth.
Academy Online –Learning in the palm of your hand, at a time that suits you, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Content
Academy Online has a wealth of content, over 7,000 modules and growing! We design and curate learning paths for specific roles onboard yachts and within luxury private estates.
Leadership Modern compliance
Hospitality
Barista
Mixology Whisk(e)y
Wine Laundry
Valet Personal development
PLATFORM
User licenses including one administration license
Basic reporting and training assignments: self service using administration license
Reporting dashboards to include management information: self service
Crew/staff aligned with reporting structure OR integration with Bamboo HR system
Managers permissions: allocate training, pull completions and attendance reports
Engagement reporting supplied by Academy
Comms and engagement planning by Academy
Playlist (content curation) once per quarter by Academy
Playlist (content curation) specific to client requests
Content studio: can create own playlists from catalogue
Branded landing pages and customised learning pathways
Personal development modules: 4,500
General business modules: 1,900
Leadership and management modules: 1,600
