Barrhead Travel celebrates apprentices at winter graduation

Barrhead Travel held a graduation ceremony for 15 apprentices on Thursday (November 14) at the agency group’s Glasgow headquarters.

The graduates, who hail from across the UK, were recognised for completing their tailored apprenticeship programmes in retail stores or support departments with online and in-person education.

The agency said every graduate has accepted a full-time position within the business, “reinforcing Barrhead Travel’s dedication to developing long-term careers in the travel industry”.

Barrhead Travel has trained and employed apprentices every year since its founding in 1975. Today, more than half of its senior management team began their journeys as trainees, thanks to its focus on developing talent from within.

Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, Barrhead Travel managing director, said: “We love giving people who have a passion for the industry a chance, whether they are just starting out in travel or are looking to expand their knowledge through our ‘on the job’ training. In my opinion, ‘on the job’ is very often the best kind of training.   

“Creating strong talent pipelines and nurturing homegrown talent is the backbone of businesses like ours and we couldn’t be prouder of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our current 15 graduates.

“While government investment in travel education has declined, Barrhead Travel remains dedicated to supporting young people through meaningful apprenticeships that offer both real work experience and professional development.

“Our apprentices bring innovation, energy, and fresh perspectives – we could not be prouder of their achievements.”

The day-long ceremony featured talks and panel sessions from colleagues within the business who also started their careers as trainees or apprentices.

Michelle Van Sprang, managing director of AS Training, one of Barrhead Travel’s training partners, also led a spotlight session with the group’s graduates from spring 2025.

Head office teams and key supplier partners, including Jet2holidays and Gold Medal, hosted presentations, followed by a formal graduation ceremony and a celebratory dinner at The Anchor Line in Glasgow.

More: Barrhead boss champions apprentices and women’s issues