Accor pledges to double number of UK apprentices
Hotel group Accor has pledged to increase its number of UK apprenticeships from 150 to 300 by the end of 2016.
In an attempt to promote apprenticeships as a route into the hospitality sector, the French hotel giant is hosting an Apprenticeship Day this afternoon at its London training academy. Held as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2015, the event will include talks from Accor UK & Ireland managing director Thomas Dubaere and representatives from the Springboard Charity.
Attendees will also take part in a Big Hospitality Conversation held in conjunction with the British Hospitality Association.
Dubaere said: "We believe in the value of apprenticeships, which is why we are committed to growing the number that we have in the UK. One of the biggest challenges we face in the UK is that young people aren't always aware of what careers are available to them and there is a myth that apprenticeships are not a viable route into a career. I believe that apprenticeships are vital as they offer young people an alternative to further education, allowing them to earn while they learn and helping them to reach their career goals."
More than 500 apprentices have completed their training with Accor since the company introduced apprenticeships 10 years ago. In addition to the 150 apprenticeships currently available, the group also offers 300 work placements every year.
Accor's HotelInvest reports active first year >>
Accor signs United Nations' Women's Empowerment Principles >>
Growth in demand for hospitality and catering apprenticeships >>
