Vocational Academy - Casino Operations and Gaming Machine Technology
Opportunities in the North West
We’re very proud that more than 90% of our learners have gone on to successfully gain employment in the industry. For learners who are over 21 there is the opportunity to access exciting opportunities on board cruise ships with our long-term partner Carnival. More locally, the North West has a thriving gaming industry with more than 20 casinos, two of which are located in Blackpool with another – the Paris Casino – due to open soon. There are also great job opportunities within Blackpool’s 50 or so amusement arcades, where close to 5,000 gaming machines require regular servicing and maintenance. With casinos now licensed to open 24 hours, even more job opportunities are being created.
What course should you do
Entry Level/Level 1
If you have not completed a GCSE programme
Level 1
If you have completed a GCSE programme
- Casino Operations, Travel and Tourism
- Gaming Machines, Gateway course
Level 2
If you have successfully completed a literacy and numeracy test
- Gaming Machines, Engineering
If you are over 18 and have no criminal record
- Casino Operations, Gambling Operations – Casino (NVQ Level 2)
If you are over 18 and have no criminal record and have an interest in electronics and/or mechanics
- Gaming Machines, Gambling Operations
Level 3
If have successfully completed the Level 2 Gaming Machines course
- Gaming Machines, Gambling Operations
Career Low-Down
| Job title | What they do | How much they earn | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Croupier | Manage gambling games in casinos and gaming clubs. Welcome new players, collect bets, deal cards or place chips, pay out winnings and clear losing bets. | £13,000-£14,000 a year. | Varies from casino to casino. Many of our Level 2 learners secure a position while they are on the course. |
| Supervisor | Monitor two or more tables and manage a team of croupiers. May get involved in customer relations and could help to resolve disputes. | £17,000-£19,000 a year. | Experience as a croupier and further training, such as a Foundation Degree. |
| Gaming Machines Attendant | Ensure all slot machines are secured and in good working order. Organise manual jackpot payouts and fill up payout containers with cash. | £12,000 a year. | A Level 2 qualification and on-the-job training. |
| Gaming Machines Engineer | Have more technical knowledge than an attendant and fix major problems. Can be either mobile or based in an on-site workshop. | £15,000-£25,000 a year. | A Level 3 qualification and on-the-job training. |
Meet the Learner
Name: Heather Murray
Age: 21
Course: NVQ Level 2 Casino Operations
Why College?
I thought working in the casino industry would be fun and exciting. Also the College has good connections and specialist training.
What’s good?
The tutors have really good knowledge and they’re very supportive. The Gaming Academy has great equipment too. The people on my course are nice - there’s a real mixture of ages and interests.
What’s best?
I really enjoy the game training. I’ve been put forward to go for my licence after just a few months at work, which means I’ll be able to work all of the tables.
What’s next?
I’ve got an interview with a cruise line through the College’s links – I’d love to travel and see the world and this is a great way to do it.
Best game:
Blackjack!
