ABTA to provide webinars offering practical help and guidance on hiring apprentices

Next month ABTA members will be able to join an informative and practical webinar designed to help employers understand everything they need to know about apprenticeships. This will be the first in a programme of webinars and drop-in sessions that ABTA and AS Training will run over the next 12 months.

ABTA’s Head of Education and Career Development Vicki Wolf and Michelle van Sprang, Managing Director, AS Training, will cover what apprenticeships are, how they work, the funding and financial support available and the business benefits they can offer.

Recent changes to apprenticeship funding have created new opportunities for employers, particularly those looking to recruit younger talent. Government announcements in July included a new £2000 hiring incentive for eligible employers recruiting apprentices under 25, which will launch in October.

The webinar will also feature an apprentice and an employer who has successfully embraced apprenticeships within their organisation. They'll share their experiences, the impact apprenticeships have had, and the lessons they've learned along the way.

Vicki Wolf ABTA Head of Education and Career Development said:

“Taking on an apprentice is a fantastic way to introduce new talent into your business with the added benefit of being able to access Government funding, subject to certain criteria, for a vast array of apprenticeships.

“Our webinar will provide a great opportunity for members to learn more about the process and the help and assistance that is available.

“Attendees will also hear the positive experiences of apprentices themselves and those who have employed them and appreciate the practical route into the industry for new talent that apprenticeships offer, helping our members to develop the skilled staff they need to grow successful businesses.”

Michelle van Sprang, Managing Director, AS Training said:

"Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to develop talented people while strengthening a business for the future. We know that many employers are interested in hiring an apprentice but aren't always sure where to start.

“This webinar is designed to simplify the process, explain the funding available and show just how straightforward it can be. By hearing directly from employers and apprentices who have experienced the benefits firsthand, we hope more businesses will feel confident in investing in the next generation of talent."

The session will finish with a live Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask any questions and gain practical advice from those with first-hand experience.

The webinar “All you need to know about hiring an apprentice” will take place on 15 September. To register, go to https://events.abta.com/abta/903/register

Notes to editors

About ABTA

ABTA is a trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators and the wider travel industry. We’re the largest travel trade body, with over 3,500 travel brands in membership who have a combined annual UK turnover of over £41 billion. We work closely with our members to help raise and maintain standards and build a more sustainable travel industry, and provide travellers with advice, guidance and support.

Our members sign up to a code of conduct and commit to agreed service standards and fair trading. When you need clear travel information, and accurate and impartial advice relating to your trip, we’re here for you. When you book with an ABTA member, reliable advice comes as standard. This means that booking with our members brings peace of mind.

All this together means we help you travel with confidence. www.abta.com

About AS Training

A S Training is an independent apprenticeship training provider specialising in the travel industry, while also supporting employers across a range of sectors. Rated 'Good' by Ofsted, the organisation works with employers across England and Scotland to deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes that develop skilled, confident professionals and create long-term career opportunities.

Working closely with businesses of all sizes, A S Training provides end-to-end support throughout the apprenticeship journey, from recruitment and funding guidance through to programme delivery and successful completion. The organisation is passionate about helping employers grow their own talent while giving individuals the opportunity to build rewarding careers.