Colleagues at Hays Travel Largs welcomed their local MSP to the branch last week to mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

Kenneth Gibson, the member for Cunninghame North, joined the team to hear about the impact of the UK’s largest independent travel agency’s award-winning scheme.

The visit was organised in conjunction with Skills Development Scotland – the country’s national skills body.

Kerrie Gault, the organisation’s skills investment advisor, also attended and met with Hays Travel apprentice Emma Meechan.

Kimberley Johnston, Branch Manager of Hays Travel Largs, said: “We were delighted to welcome our local MSP and Skills Development Scotland, who came along to chat with our apprentice Emma about her experience so far. 

“It was a great chance to highlight the progress she’s making and what her apprenticeship means to her.

“We took a lot away from the visit, especially around the importance of apprenticeships. Fun fact: Everyone in our branch started out as an apprentice!

“Thank you to Skills Development Scotland and our local MSP for taking the time to visit.”

Applications for Hays Travel’s apprenticeship scheme are now open.

Training is provided in-house by an award-winning team, with retail colleagues obtaining a Level 3 Travel Consultant apprenticeship.

Following the visit this week, Kenneth Gibson MSP said: “Scottish Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate how apprenticeships are transforming lives across the country.

“With the wide range of good jobs and careers available, most young people will be able to find something that appeals to them.” 

Frank Mitchell, chair of Skills Development Scotland, added: “Scottish apprenticeships provide real returns for employers, individuals and the economy.  

“People from all backgrounds are gaining meaningful career opportunities through apprenticeships, creating diverse workforces that benefits business and our society.  

“At a time when employers are seeing skill shortages all over the country, apprenticeships have never been so important than they are now.”

For more information about Hays Travel’s apprenticeship scheme, visit: Apprenticeships | Careers - Hays Travel