Industry specialists join Umbrella Training for National Apprenticeship Week

Leading names from across hospitality will be discussing levy transfers and career progression as part a series of events hosted by Umbrella Training during National Apprenticeship Week (8-14 February).

The headline event, a panel discussion between representatives from companies including Sodexo, Compass, Luxury Family Hotels, GlaxoSmithKline, and the London Progression Collaboration, will focus on how levy transfers work and the impact they have had on business.

Supporting National Apprenticeship Week’s ‘Build the Future’ theme, Umbrella Training will be speaking to Sean Wheeler, formerly director of people development for Kimpton UK & Regent Hotels at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), and winner of an Outstanding Contribution Catey in 2019.

Wheeler will share insights into his career and how career progression can be achieved through apprenticeships on LinkedIn Live.

Umbrella Training is also working with the Institute of Hospitality to host live Instagram Q&A sessions with Home Grown Hotels and the Lime Wood Group, PPHE Hotel Group and Farncombe Estate. These sessions will see each employer discuss how apprenticeships have had tangible impacts on their organisations.

Alongside the events, there will be a full schedule of blogs and videos alongside free interactive learning sessions. Industry expert Dr Hilary Cooke of the Merlin Business Consultancy will cover the topic of courageous leadership, and a discovery workshop on psychometric testing and its benefits will take place with consultant Rachel Begbie.

The week-long event will showcase how apprenticeships have helped employers and people of all ages and backgrounds, while highlighting the many benefits apprenticeships bring to business.

Jo Simovic, chief operating officer at Umbrella Training, said: “National Apprenticeship Week is always a great opportunity to showcase the value of apprenticeship to individual organisations and the wider industry.

“This year, it feels more significant than ever given the people challenges the industry is facing.

“As the sector recovers, we firmly believe that apprentices will play a vital role in helping organisations rebuild their workforces.”

When announcing the week’s theme, apprenticeships and skills minister Gillian Keegan said: “National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to highlight the amazing opportunities that an apprenticeship brings to employers, individuals and the economy.

“It has been fantastic to see how employers of all sizes have gone above and beyond to ensure apprentices can continue their studies during this unprecedented time. The week is also an opportunity to shine a light on how apprentices of all ages and backgrounds are helping to transform businesses across the country.

“As a former apprentice I know what a life=changing experience it can be, and I’m looking forward to being part of National Apprenticeship Week 2021 and seeing first-hand the inspiring ways apprentices and their employers continue to deliver.”