The Travel Village Group has announced the launch of a pioneering Training and Development Academy. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of its homeworking business owners.
The first course offered will focus on river cruises, providing essential knowledge and support to navigate this flourishing sector.
Developed by Amanda Taylor and Richard Cross, the River Cruise Academy was inspired during the Clia Riverview Conference in Amsterdam. “Richard and I were exploring ideas for increasing our business owners’ engagement with river cruises,” Taylor explained. The programme anticipates addressing the gap in understanding this lucrative yet novel market in the UK.
Commencing in September, the academy will run until May 2025 and will blend virtual and in-person sessions. Participants will gain insights into different brands, itineraries, and operational systems.
The academy also includes two fam trips and a local event hosted by attendees with assistance from the Travel Village Group and a cruise operator. This hands-on approach will significantly boost their confidence and proficiency.
Providing comprehensive exposure through fam trips, participants will explore firsthand the benefits of river cruising.
The Travel Village programme is distinctive in its immersive design, surpassing standard training offered by individual cruise lines.
Brad Bennetts, APT & APT Travelmarvel’s head of sales, attests to the academy’s transformative potential, aligning with their mission to inspire through unique travel experiences.
AMA Waterways, APT Travelmarvel, Emerald & Scenic Cruises, and Uniworld are backing this initiative, highlighting its industry-wide acceptance.
The collaborative effort aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of river cruising. This strategic alignment showcases the academy’s commitment to education and excellence.
Cross explained, “Our academy offers a singular opportunity in the industry for a fully immersive training experience.” This initiative stands apart from existing in-house programmes.
By March 2025, graduates will present at the Clia Riverview Conference, poised to lead and innovate in river cruising sales. Their newfound expertise sets a promising precedent for future business engagements.
Following the river cruise programme, the Travel Village Group plans to initiate additional academies. These include training in expedition, luxury, ocean cruising, and other holiday sectors.
The strategic expansion reflects a commitment to diversifying educational opportunities, ensuring business owners are well-equipped to meet varied client needs.
Participants are required to pay a nominal fee to confirm their enrollment, symbolising their dedication to this educational journey.
By establishing this academy, Travel Village Group is reinforcing its dedication to professional growth. The multifaceted training programmes are geared to empower business owners, ultimately enhancing their service delivery and client satisfaction.
