NOT every school leaver will achieve the grades they need for a university place this week. With this in mid, apprenticeships can offer a route into the hospitality sector for young, enthusiastic school leavers, and Hospitality Apprenticeship North East applications are now open for the autumn intake of 16 to 25 year olds. Hospitality Apprenticeship North East is supported by partners Opportunity North East and Skills Development Scotland.
Hospitality Apprenticeship North East chairman Stephen Gow is encouraging anyone who has been unable to secure a university post to consider an apprenticeship route.
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“Unlike taking a college or a university course, becoming an apprentice means you will have an income while you learn… and will mean you have no student debt at the end of the programme. You’ll be getting hands-on experience, learning each and every day and having a structure for study. The apprenticeship leads to an SVQ Level 5 on completion and our apprentices all earn the national minimum wage rather than the much lower national apprenticeship wage.”
“Hospitality employers are attracted to those who have completed an apprenticeship due to their level of workplace experience making them multi-skilled and flexible.”
“A firm foundation in hospitality opens to door to promotions and travel. After all, hospitality is the most global of all careers and it’s a sector well recognised for promoting from within – and for employees of all ages including the youngest in their workforce.”
Anthony McKillop, who graduated from the apprenticeship this summer at Douneside House, said:
“Hospitality Apprenticeship North East gives you a level of freedom in how you work through your apprenticeship, which has enhanced the whole experience. The whole learning and training experience is also very inclusive and can be adapted to work with your individual needs, interests, learning styles, and expectations.
“I would most definitely recommend the Hospitality Apprenticeship North East apprenticeship to anyone. It was probably the best decision I have made as I have had the chance to understand how the hospitality industry works and given the time to learn and build up my skills and knowledge. I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”
Rosa Jackson, currently an apprentice at Jurys Inn Union Square, who was awarded the title of Employee of the Month in her second month at the hotel, said:
“I am getting the best of both worlds. You are getting an education but also getting the skills and working at the same time. And with the work schedule, the masterclasses, and the learning bites, the opportunities on this apprenticeship are amazing. I feel so lucky to be in this position, and I am 100% certain my apprenticeship has opened a whole new chapter in my life.”
Applications for the autumn intake of the Hospitality Apprenticeship North East programme are open now at www.hospitalityapprentice.com.
