Training academy launched by schools operator to support industry talent

A schools tour operator run by travel industry veterans has launched a training academy to support future talent in the sector and created 15 new roles.

Birmingham-based Diverse School Travel announced the news after enjoying growth of more than 50% in the last year, which included a move into a new city centre office to bring its team under one roof.

The company’s new Centre of Excellence training academy aims to help fast-track new starters into the business, offering specialist training and hands-on experience.

The operator said it was working closely with local universities to give graduates and postgraduates a chance to kickstart their careers in the sector.

The operator, which runs school trips across the UK and beyond, is run by chief executive Chris Harrison, former managing director of high street travel agency chain Dawson & Sanderson. Derek Jones, a non-executive director of agency group Not Just Travel and former managing director of Kuoni, is a non-executive director of Diverse School Travel.

Harrison said: “We’re incredibly proud that our growth means more jobs for local people and more opportunities for young professionals to build a career in travel.”

He said the operator’s recent success had been driven by strong word-of-mouth recommendations and feedback from teachers, with repeat bookings reaching record levels this year.

He added: “It’s been a landmark year for us. We’ve built a diverse team of travel specialists from all over the world who share our passion for education and exploration. We’re ending the year stronger than ever and already looking ahead to even more growth in 2026.”