This from the People1st online magazine Talent. It would seem that a group of industry leaders are shaping a plan for the future of skills and education (and are prepared to look at the viability of a travel and tourism academy). TW will keep an eye on this . . ..
[to get Talent email the People 1st marketing team]
Here is the aricle:
Representatives of the travel and tourism industry met with People 1st last month to discuss the potential of establishing a National Skills Academy.
The meeting was attended by senior industry representatives from Hoseasons, Thomas Cook, TUI , Advantage Travel, Co-op Travel and Holiday Breaks as well as the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) and the Institute of Travel and Tourism.
The aim was to identify some of the key challenges facing employers and areas where a new academy could make a real impact. Areas of importance indentified included energy prices,
eco-tourism, on-line trading, sustainability and financial modelling to withstand volatile economics.
The importance of recognising continual professional development - such as the Accredited Travel Professional initiative - was also agreed, along with enabling best practice employers to communicate with academy learners through People 1st's UKSP website.
Although very early days, the meeting made considerable progress in what was effectively identifying the blueprint for future education and training for travel and tourism. Although still at the speculative stage, the group is keen to progress its thinking over the next few months and research the market need for a new academy.
Earlier this year, People 1st submitted a bid for an academy in hospitality on behalf of employers, and developed a fully costed business plan which gained ministerial approval. The academy will welcome over 50,000 learners on approved training programmes over the next five years and play a key role in raising standards across the board.
It is not yet clear whether government will invite applications to develop further academies. However, if this opportunity arises - and employers wish to exploit it - People 1st will use its expertise and experience to help bring this vision to life.
If you are an employer who thinks that an Academy for Travel and Tourism would benefit the sector, please let us know by emailing
phil.raynsford@people1st.co.uk
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