There are three main ways to enter the Hospitality, Leisure and Travel & Tourism industry…

GETTING A JOB

Many of the industry’s top people have learned their skills at the cutting edge, working their way on the basis of experience and proven ability. This is still a popular route but nowadays there are opportunities to gain qualifications at the same time. This could be through NVQ’s/SVQ’s or Modern Apprenticeships. It could be by attending a part-time college course or through distance learning.

BECOMING A TRAINEE

A wide range of employers and training providers conduct a structured programme offering work placements. These combine work experience training leading to qualifications and the chance to earn while you learn. At the end of the placement you’ll have developed the skills you need for your future career and have gained a recognised qualification.

Foundation Modern Apprenticeships (England)  /  National Traineeships (Wales only)

Are available in England and Wales to young people aged 16 or 17 who have recently left school or college. They provide broad, work-based training leading to NVQ’s and the development of essential all-round skills. Funding is available towards training costs from local Learning and Skills Councils (LSC) and EDUCATION and LEARNING WALES (ELWa).

With a Full Choice of NVQ’s, apprentices will usually gain a level 2 NVQ in their chosen area of work; food preparation and cooking, reception, housekeeping, hospitality quick service, residential service, bar service, hospitality services, or serving food and drink. But that’s not all, there’s more and it’s flexible! Language units are also available and some apprentices can choose to work towards a level 1 NVQ before proceeding to level 2 to build a foundation for their development.

A Training Programme. At the outset of the apprenticeship, a programme is set out. This includes an introduction to the apprenticeship, the hospitality industry, and the employer’s organisation. It also shows how the apprentice will cover basic health and safety, hygiene and customer skills.

GETTING QUALIFIED

Enrol on a full-time college or university based programme. You may have no academic qualifications, you may have two or more ‘A’ levels or Scottish highers, or you may have a degree. Whatever your academic background, there are full-time courses available to help you build your career.

Browse the UCAS website to find more information about available courses and universities.