Seventeen-year-old Finlay MacLeod had never imagined himself working in travel until he walked into the Hays Travel office in Largs six months ago. “I thought I’d end up in retail or maybe an office job,” he admits, adjusting his name badge nervously. “But now I’m planning holidays for families and helping people create memories. It feels incredible.”
Finlay’s story represents exactly what Scottish Apprenticeship Week is all about – discovering career paths that young people never knew existed. This week, his workplace became the center of attention when local MSP Kenneth Gibson visited to celebrate the growing opportunities in Scotland’s tourism industry.
The visit wasn’t just a photo opportunity. It highlighted something crucial: Scotland’s travel and tourism sector is actively fighting back against staffing shortages by investing in homegrown talent through apprenticeship programs.
Why This Celebration Matters More Than You Think
When Kenneth Gibson stepped into the Hays Travel Largs branch, he wasn’t just meeting apprentices – he was witnessing the future of Scottish tourism unfold in real time. The timing couldn’t be more significant.
Scotland’s tourism industry contributes over £6 billion annually to the economy, yet it’s been struggling with a critical skills shortage since the pandemic. Many experienced travel professionals left the industry during lockdowns, creating a massive gap that traditional hiring couldn’t fill.
The apprenticeship model gives young people real skills while earning money and gaining qualifications. It’s a win-win situation that addresses our industry’s immediate needs while building long-term careers.
— Kenneth Gibson, MSP for Cunninghame North
Hays Travel, as the UK’s largest independent travel agency, has been pioneering this approach across Scotland. Their apprenticeship programs don’t just fill positions – they’re creating career pathways that didn’t exist for previous generations.
The Largs branch serves as a perfect example of how local businesses can transform communities. Located in one of Scotland’s most popular coastal destinations, the office handles everything from family holidays to complex business travel arrangements.
What These Apprenticeships Actually Offer
Let’s break down what makes these tourism apprenticeships different from traditional entry-level jobs. The programs combine practical work experience with formal qualifications, creating a structured pathway to career advancement.
| Program Element | Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| On-the-job training | 18-24 months | Real customer interaction, immediate income |
| Formal qualifications | Throughout program | Recognized certifications, transferable skills |
| Mentorship support | Ongoing | Career guidance, professional development |
| Progression opportunities | Post-completion | Management tracks, specialized roles |
The apprentices don’t just learn to book holidays. They master complex systems including:
- Global distribution systems for flights and hotels
- Customer service excellence in high-pressure situations
- Financial planning and travel insurance guidance
- Destination knowledge covering worldwide locations
- Digital marketing and social media for travel promotion
These aren’t just jobs – they’re launching pads for careers that can take young people anywhere in the world. The travel industry rewards expertise and passion like few others.
— Sarah Mitchell, Regional Training Manager, Hays Travel Scotland
What makes this particularly exciting is the variety of career paths available. Successful apprentices can move into roles ranging from luxury travel specialists to corporate travel managers, or even branch management positions.
The Real Impact on Scottish Communities
Beyond individual success stories, these apprenticeship programs are reshaping how Scottish communities view career opportunities. Towns like Largs, which rely heavily on tourism, are seeing young people choose to stay local rather than migrate to larger cities for career prospects.
The economic ripple effects are significant. When young people earn good wages locally, they spend money in local shops, restaurants, and services. They’re more likely to buy homes in the area and start families, strengthening community bonds.
MSP Kenneth Gibson emphasized this during his visit, noting that rural and coastal Scottish communities need these types of career opportunities to remain vibrant and sustainable.
When we keep talented young people in places like Largs, we’re not just filling jobs – we’re preserving the character and future of Scottish communities.
— Kenneth Gibson, MSP
The apprenticeship model also addresses a crucial social mobility issue. Many young people from working-class backgrounds can’t afford university education or don’t see it as relevant to their goals. These programs offer an alternative route to professional careers without accumulating student debt.
Parents in the area are taking notice too. Instead of worrying about their children leaving for opportunities elsewhere, they’re seeing viable career paths developing right in their hometown.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Tourism’s Future
The success of programs like the one at Hays Travel Largs is influencing policy discussions across Scotland. The Scottish government is increasingly viewing apprenticeships as a key tool for economic development, particularly in rural and coastal areas.
Industry experts predict that this model will expand significantly over the next few years. Other travel companies are watching Hays Travel’s results closely, and many are preparing to launch similar programs.
We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how the travel industry develops talent. The companies that invest in apprenticeships now will have the skilled workforce they need as tourism continues to recover and grow.
— David Robertson, Tourism Skills Development Scotland
The timing aligns perfectly with broader changes in how people approach travel. Post-pandemic travelers want more personalized service and expert guidance, exactly the skills these apprentices are developing.
For young people considering their options, the message is clear: the travel industry offers genuine career opportunities with real progression potential. The days of viewing travel jobs as temporary or low-skilled are rapidly disappearing.
As Finlay MacLeod puts it, “Six months ago, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. Now I’m planning to specialize in adventure travel and maybe even work overseas someday. This apprenticeship opened doors I didn’t even know existed.”
FAQs
What qualifications do you need to apply for a travel apprenticeship?
Most programs require basic school qualifications and strong communication skills, but enthusiasm and customer service aptitude matter more than specific grades.
How much do travel apprentices earn while training?
Apprentices typically earn the apprentice minimum wage initially, with regular increases as they progress through their training milestones.
Can travel apprentices work anywhere after completing their program?
Yes, the skills and qualifications gained are transferable across the entire travel and tourism industry, both in Scotland and internationally.
How long does it take to complete a travel apprenticeship?
Most programs run for 18-24 months, combining workplace learning with formal study components.
Are there opportunities for further career development after apprenticeship completion?
Absolutely – many companies offer clear progression paths into management, specialized roles, or additional training in areas like luxury travel or corporate services.
Do travel apprentices get the same employee benefits as other staff?
Most reputable employers, including Hays Travel, provide apprentices with standard employee benefits including holiday entitlement and staff travel discounts.
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