People 1st launches campaign on benefits of apprenticeship standards

Workplace skills charity People 1st is launching a campaign to help hospitality businesses prepare for the new employer-driven apprenticeship standards while boosting staff retention and profitability.

There are seven new standards being set for hospitality apprenticeships coming into force in spring 2016, created by Hilton Worldwide and trailblazer employers, which are designed to be more clearly defined and fit for purpose. People 1st is seeking to show businesses how useful and profitable properly-administered apprenticeships can be, both for small and medium companies as well as larger ones.

This includes research showing that a third of level 2 apprentices move into a management role within two years, and that turnover of these apprentices is almost half (45%) the average of other businesses. The charity can also help businesses choose the right apprentice for them, and offer relevant advice to companies looking to implement the new standards.

A new online portal will also be regularly updated with relevant tools and information.

Chief executive Simon Tarr explained that an apprentice working in hospitality can also contribute up to £5,200 to a business's bottom line.

He added: “The government is in the midst of a consultation over the proposed apprenticeship levy, set to cost our sector over £100m, which will affect all UK employers, whether they use apprenticeships or not. Our role is to help the hospitality, travel, retail and passenger transport industries, sectors to understand, navigate and, benefit long term from such legislation.”

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