Two of Scotland’s hospitality apprenticeship schemes – Apprenticeship in Hospitality Scotland (AHS) and Hospitality Apprenticeship North East (HANE) – have merged to create a new national initiative, Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland.
AHS, launched in 2014 by a group of hotel operators, became known for its rotational model that gave apprentices experience across multiple departments. HANE, focused on the North East, helped train the next generation of chefs through close partnerships with local employers and an emphasis on fair pay.
The new, unified programme will retain the best of both, with a broader national reach and the goal of building a stronger pipeline of talent for the sector.
Aimed at 16 to 24-year-olds and is backed by major employers including Cameron House, The Fife Arms, Cromlix, Trump Turnberry and The Royal Yacht Britannia, it offers apprenticeships in hospitality and professional cookery, with both routes leading to recognised qualifications and potential for further study.
Apprentices are paid at least the national minimum wage for their age rather than the lower apprenticeship rate, and gain hands-on experience across some of the country’s top hotels and restaurants.
Gordon McIntyre MBE, board member of Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland, said, “By bringing our two programmes together, we’re opening the door to even more opportunities for young people right across Scotland. Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland gives them the chance to earn, learn and build a meaningful career—supported by some of the best hospitality businesses in the country.”
Applications are now open for young adults living in Scotland. More information is available at www.hospitalityapprentice.com.
Picture: Rosa Jackson, Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland graduate