An online education and careers hub is being introduced by Abta as a starting point for people interested in developing careers in the travel industry.
Latest information on routes to entry, learning opportunities and useful contacts are included.
Abta believes it is in a unique position to facilitate relationships between universities, colleges and training institutions that are developing the employees of the future; members, who are seeking to employ skilled and educated staff; and the wider travel industry.
The association aims to share useful information and insight, split into three sections: learning and development opportunities; universities and colleges in Abta’s Partner Scheme; and information for people seeking apprenticeships.
Users can access links to relevant learning events, websites and guides such as Travel Weekly’s annual ‘Take off in Travel’ publication, which gives an overview of the range of careers in the travel industry and includes contact details for universities, colleges and companies with opportunities in travel.
Information and a website directory for apprenticeship schemes is included alongside listings of training providers and colleges that offer travel apprenticeships.
Information includes a new travel consultant apprenticeship developed by the workforce development charity People 1st, Abta, a number of members and other industry representatives.
The new apprenticeship, which covers both leisure and business travel, has an end assessment test to ensure that every apprentice meets agreed industry professional standards.
The universities and colleges section includes institutions which have joined Abta’s Partner Scheme, and provides information on the association’s internship programme.
Education partners have access to Abta’s industry resources and expertise, and university partners have the exclusive opportunity for their students to apply for Abta’s annual internship which provides hands-on experience of working on sustainability initiatives.
Abta brand and business development director Victoria Bacon said: “Over the past two years in particular, we have focused our efforts on bringing our members and education partners closer together through the Abta Education Partner Scheme.
“We have also grown the range of learning opportunities for industry staff through our expanded events and conferences programme, so it’s a natural next step for Abta to create a dedicated hub with relevant resources for anyone pursuing their career in travel.
“There are a huge range of exciting paths for people who are either starting their career or looking to develop their careers further, so it can be difficult to know where to start.
“The purpose of this hub is to provide employees of today, and the future, with the resources to discover the opportunities on offer. We hope to showcase the range of opportunities in this fantastic industry while also making it easier for people to navigate the options.”
The hub is accessible at abta.com/education