Premier Inn set to check in 66 apprentices

Hotel chain Premier Inn has launched a new apprenticeship scheme, aimed at school-leavers and with an initial 66 vacancies, following a partnership with ITC Academy and Skills Development Scotland.

Minister for Youth and Women's Employment, Annabelle Ewing at Premier Inn, Edinburgh. Picture: Phil Wilkinson

The Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Programme has been designed to “help build a strong and talented future workforce in the Scottish hospitality sector,” letting apprentices train in all areas of the business and giving them a permanent contract on completing the programme. In Scotland Premier Inn has more than 60 hotels and 1,800 staff. Annabelle Ewing, minister for youth and women’s employment, said she is “delighted” with the launch of the scheme, highlighting that the Scottish Government is committed to creating 25,500 new modern apprenticeship opportunities in 2015-16.

Lawrence Durden, Skills Development Scotland’s tourism sector manager, said modern apprenticeships are “vital” for the hospitality trade to keep attracting talented young people and to develop skills.