The course was hosted at Club North Haven and is a joint venture between the club, ClubsNSW and training group Barringtons.

Participants attended the club for two days a week over a five week period.

Club North Haven's assistant secretary manager and education manager for clubs in the Great Lakes Zone Shane Globits was one of the driving forces behind the course.

"The participants either couldn't find work or were part of the Job Ready scheme," he said.

"The ages varied from people who have just finished school, some had been made redundant from their last job while others simply wanted to improve their skills base.

"Certificate II is a base line course, however, all the participants had access to staff members who were able to provide real feedback whilst learn new skills.

"From a club perspective, this course was extremely worthwhile and valuable," he said.

Part of the experience included serving just on 200 people at the club's Melbourne Cup function.

They were also involved in learning about RSA, RSG, mixing drinks, cafe and dining area and cellar work.

Club supervisor and on-site trainer Ken Hodges says the group was motivated.

"I was really happy to see that this entire group were enthusiastic and wanting to get involved," he said.

"Having the staff available to talk with them and explain each step in the process was a really good outcome too.

"I think it was very much hands-on for the participants."

Mr Globits said the main aim of the course was to train people for front line work.

"We wanted to teach people the right way from the very start," he said.

"A number of the participants are now on our radar to pick up work here but the course is also about further their training and expanding their skills.

"We were expecting five to turn up, so to have 18, very keen participants was really quite pleasing."

He said the club will likely provide a certificate III or IV in hospitality in 2019.

The Great Lakes Zone includes clubs from Bulahdelah to South West Rocks.