Jet2holidays has significantly increased its support for the travel industry’s future workforce with an additional £150,000 funding for agency apprenticeships. This expansion brings their overall investment to £650,000, aimed at benefiting over 30 independent travel agencies across the UK.
The additional funding is set to cover the salaries and bespoke training of new apprentices for a full year, underscoring Jet2holidays’ commitment to developing fresh talent and supporting the growth of small agency businesses across the nation.
Jet2holidays Increases Funding Commitment
In a significant boost to its agency apprenticeship programme, Jet2holidays announced an additional £150,000 increase to its current funding. This brings the total to £650,000 aimed at nurturing new talents across independent travel agencies. The new funds will directly support the salaries and training of apprentices for a year, providing vital support for over 30 agencies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The move is part of Jet2holidays’ ongoing efforts to support independent travel agents, enabling them to recruit dedicated apprentices and enhance their workforce. With the initial £500,000 funds already in circulation, the added £150,000 is directed toward enhancing the bespoke training programs tailored to each apprentice’s needs.
Impact on Independent Agencies
Jet2holidays’ initiative has had a meaningful impact on independent agencies, many of which are classified as small businesses. These agencies, including Cumbria Travel, Now Lets Travel, and Sunlounger Travel, are actively recruiting apprentices for the first time, marking a significant step in their growth strategy.
The funds have been allocated to 50 companies, supporting nearly 100 new apprentices, demonstrating a substantial investment in the industry’s future. For many agencies, this will facilitate not only the recruitment of new talent but also the retention and development of their existing staff, reinforcing their competitive edge in the market.
Response to the Appoint an Apprentice Scheme
The popularity of Jet2holidays’ Appoint an Apprentice scheme has been remarkable, with demand surpassing the available funds. This initiative underscores the enthusiasm of agencies to expand and rejuvenate their teams.
Chief Executive Steve Heapy expressed his amazement at the overwhelming response from the industry, acknowledging the partners’ eagerness to leverage the scheme for workforce development and future growth.
“The volume of applications shows how much our partners want to grow,” Heapy said, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing future industry talent through substantial investment.
Commitment to Apprenticeship Development
Jet2holidays remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the travel industry through apprenticeships, building on its reputation as a key player driving workforce enhancement. The additional funding reflects its strategy to underpin small businesses and enhance the number of employers offering apprenticeships.
This concerted effort aligns with national strategies observed during the National Apprenticeship Week, where the importance of developing skilled workers is promoted. As Jet2holidays continues to back this initiative, it is expected to further foster a culture of learning and skill acquisition in the sector.
Voices from the Industry
Industry leaders have echoed support for Jet2holidays’ funding scheme, recognising its potential to elevate the business capabilities of small agencies. Leanne Miller of Cumbria Travel praised the initiative as pivotal for business expansion and talent acquisition.
Iain Kirkbright from Sunlounger Travel and Paul Johnstone from Now Lets Travel also shared similar sentiments, recognising the programme’s ability to catalyse sales and workforce growth. Their testimonies underscore the programme’s value and potential to yield significant returns in the travel sector.
Paul Johnstone stated, “Jet2holidays offering this fantastic initiative will allow us to further invest in the scheme and help bring on the next generation of travel talent.”
Jet2holidays’ reinforced commitment to the apprenticeship scheme highlights its dedication to shaping the industry’s future. The increased funding not only supports agencies and apprentices but also reflects a broader strategy to cultivate a skilled and robust workforce within the travel sector.
