Poly, ITE students get jobs at 'Happiest Place on Earth'

53 of them among first batch from Singapore to intern at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

- Gabrielle Chan

Some 53 polytechnic and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) students have headed to "the Happiest Place on Earth," not to play but to work.

These students from Republic, Temasek, Ngee Ann and Nanyang polytechnics, as well as ITE, are among the first batch from Singapore who started internships at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort in September. Their stints end in February 2025.

From managing hotel and park operations to handling merchandise to working in restaurants at the iconic theme park, the interns interact with guests - providing directions, addressing questions and managing the flow of crowds at certain attractions and rides.

This internship - known as the International College Programme - started in August 2024, and its first group of interns were hired from Singapore, said a spokeswoman for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

The theme park has been running other internships and local programmes since 2005, where students - typically those from schools in Hong Kong - can gain training and work experience in hospitality, entertainment and other roles, she added.

Its staff members, including interns, come from more than 43 countries and regions including Thailand, the Philippines and India, the spokeswoman said.

Students went through a preparatory session led by a trainer from Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and were given information on travelling around Hong Kong. They are housed at Grand Bay View Hotel in Tsuen Wan.