UKH unveils new apprentice programme

UKHospitality has unveiled the Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship Programme for A Level, T Level and Level 3 Vocational Technical Qualifications (VTQs) graduates.

Launching this September, the five-year, work-based programme is designed to create a pipeline of future hospitality leaders, offering an alternative to the traditional graduate route.

The five year programme includes Level 3, Level 5 and Level 7 apprenticeships – tailored to different career entry points and fully fundable via the apprenticeship levy or 95% government co-investment.

UKHospitality chair, Kate Nicholls, said: “With the launch of this new scheme, we are changing the culture of the hospitality industry. We are unashamedly seeking bright, focussed, ambitious 18-year-olds to join our diverse and vibrant workforce. Via this programme, they will be able to quickly progress and find their place in leadership roles, unlocking significant earnings, responsibility and opportunities across the globe.”

It comes after the Department for Education made two key changes to apprenticeships which UKH praised at the time.

Under the changes the minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months. Furthermore, businesses will be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 will need to complete level 2 English and maths qualifications in order to pass.

The trade body stated that introducing more flexibility into apprenticeships and giving businesses more control “will remove a significant barrier for both the employer and the apprentice”.

UKH represents more than 123,000 venues, from pubs, bars and restaurants to hotels, indoor leisure and contract catering.