New apprenticeship scheme launched
More travel businesses will be able to run apprenticeship programmes following the launch of a new scheme, according to skills council People 1st.
Available from September, the new apprenticeship for travel services has been extended to accommodate the specific needs of the travel sector and includes three formal routes for leisure and business, tour operators – head office, and tour operators – field staff.
People 1st said the changes followed consultations with travel businesses which said apprenticeships were not previously accessible or relevant to all businesses.
The new apprenticeship offers businesses more flexibility in how they can be delivered, said People 1st.
They can be embedded within an organisation’s in-house training scheme, whilst apprentices can progress learning in their own time or location – some of which could be through online training and assessment.
The introduction of a mandatory unit around Employer Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) within the apprenticeship is another key change.
The unit covers an overview of the organisation and sector, the role of the apprentice within the organisation, as well as progression routes, health and safety, diversity and industry bodies.
Learners can now receive formal credit for this element of the programme.
Other changes to the apprenticeship scheme include a mandatory customer service unit for the level 2 technical certificate, whilst the travel insurance unit will no longer be compulsory.
Apprentices will be able to concentrate on their own UK destination with no requirement to complete all four UK destination units (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales).
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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