Please note: Our website no longer fully supports IE11, as such you may encounter issues using our website, please try an alternative browser such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge (Windows) or Safari (Mac).
The value of apprenticeships for travel companies: A guide for SMEs
As the UK travel sector continues to grow, small and medium-sized travel companies face a critical challenge: how to develop and retain talented staff in an increasingly competitive market. While the industry's post-pandemic recovery provides opportunities for growth, success hinges on having skilled professionals who can deliver exceptional service. This is where apprenticeships offer a powerful solution, providing a structured pathway to develop both new talent and existing staff while accessing significant government support.
Understanding apprenticeships in the travel sector
Apprenticeships offer a practical way to develop staff members through structured off-the-job training, whilst the apprentice is employed and gaining on-the-job experience. As a result, the training ensures that apprentices develop the technical knowledge, real-world skills and wider behaviours needed to work in the travel industry. Furthermore, the apprenticeship facilitates the implementation of this new learning in real time in the workplace. Many employers start with the travel consultant apprenticeship, but apprenticeships are available for most teams and roles – administration, accounts, marketing, team leading and IT to name just a few.
Time investment and employer responsibilities
One of the most common questions from SME travel companies is about the time commitment to set up and support an apprentice. In terms of starting an apprentice on programme, the good news is that most providers will be able to guide you through that process and undertake most of the administration. Once you’ve identified the individuals and apprenticeship, the provider will undertake the necessary assessments to ensure that the programme is appropriate and will support you with making the necessary funding reservation on the Apprenticeship Service site. If funding reservations and the Apprenticeship Service are completely new to you, don’t worry – it’s easy to do and your provider will take you through it step-by-step.
In terms of the support required whilst the apprentice is on their programme, employers need to provide apprentices with at least six hours per week for the off-the-job training, which takes place during normal working hours. This time can include various learning activities such as attending workshops, completing online modules, shadowing experienced staff members, or participating in industry visits. The off-the-job time can usually be arranged to suit your business operations – it doesn't have to be allocated as a single block of time each week – unless the provider you choose to work with operates an in-person programme, where apprentices physically attend classes one day per week.
The main responsibilities for employers include:
- Providing a suitable workplace supervisor (typically the apprentice’s line manager)
- Ensuring the apprentice has opportunities to apply their learning
- Participating in regular progress reviews
- Supporting the apprentice's development through day-to-day supervision.
How training providers support your journey
Training providers like Damar Training play a crucial role in making apprenticeships manageable for SMEs. They provide comprehensive support, including:
- Managing the recruitment process if you're hiring a new apprentice
- Designing and delivering the training programme
- Providing learning resources and materials
- Conducting regular progress reviews
- Offering support to workplace supervisors
- Managing or supporting with compliance and funding.
Many providers use a “blended” model, combining virtual one-to-one visits and group coaching sessions with online learning and webinars. This flexible approach means minimal disruption to your business operations while ensuring high-quality training delivery.
Financial benefits and funding
For SMEs in the travel sector, apprenticeships are more financially accessible than ever. If your organisation has an annual wage bill below £3 million, you are eligible for significant government funding support.
For apprentices aged up to 21, the government funds 100% of the training costs. For those aged 22 and over, the government provides 95% of the funding, leaving only a small contribution from the employer.
Additionally, there are several financial incentives that make apprenticeships even more attractive for travel SMEs:
- In most cases, employers don't pay National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, potentially saving thousands of pounds annually. For example, on a salary of £20,000, this represents a saving of £2,250 per year.
- For apprentices aged 16-18, employers can receive an additional £1,000 grant.
Long-term value for travel businesses
The benefits of apprenticeships extend far beyond the immediate financial incentives. Travel companies implementing apprenticeship programmes report numerous advantages, including increased productivity, improved customer service, and better staff retention rates.
Apprenticeships can transform businesses by developing skilled, loyal employees who understand the industry inside-out. These programmes help create a pipeline of talent specifically trained in travel planning, customer service, and the use of industry-specific booking systems.
Getting started
Starting an apprenticeship programme in your travel business doesn't have to be complicated. Training providers can guide you through each step, from selecting the right apprenticeship standard to managing the day-to-day requirements. They'll help you understand the funding options available and ensure you're meeting all necessary requirements while maximising the benefits for your business.
With consumer confidence in travel professionals at a high point and the industry showing strong recovery signals, there's never been a better time for travel SMEs to invest in apprenticeships. The combination of government funding support, reduced National Insurance contributions, and comprehensive training provider support makes apprenticeships an accessible and valuable option for developing your workforce and securing your business's future success.
Find our more at Damar Training here.