What's on the menu?: Hospitality Learner experiences at STS

Skern Training and Skills (STS) is a Main Apprenticeship provider and leader in the Training and Development sector. Operating nationally with a history enriched by dynamic learning experiences, STS's primary focus is to ensure every learner gains hands-on experience that is relevant and proves invaluable in the real world.

Our long standing and impressive experience in the hospitality industry has seen thousands of successful residentials programmes year on year with a repeat booking rate over 95%, plus a variety of events held from festivals and weddings, to corporate experiences. This level of understanding and experience, as well as a successful hospitality kickstart programme and employing and training our own apprentices, means we’ve been able to work in partnership with other hospitality employers to create bespoke training programmes that specifically address both the needs of this fast-paced industry, and of the apprentices, through invaluable learning experiences.

We are dedicated to supporting the hospitality industry to develop employees at all levels, from people starting out in their careers to leaders wanting to enhance skills.

Take a look below at some of the hospitality experiences at STS:

Desmond Squire, Apprentice Training Specialist (Hospitality): The Perspective of a Leader

What initially appealed/motivated you to work with STS?

With 20 years in the Training and Development sector, I have consistently sought ways to enhance learning experiences. My association with STS began when I recognised a shared ethos - one of progressive learning, comprehensive curriculum designs for levels 2 through 4, and a mutual commitment to ensuring every learner gets the best.

What has your experience been of working with the STS team?

Throughout my tenure, STS has been a testament to flexibility and dynamism. Their commitment to tailoring training requirements is unparalleled.

How do apprentices support the development of skills in an organisation?

Apprentices, with their blend of fresh perspectives and eagerness, have brought immense value. Their journey, from novices to professionals contributing significantly to their roles, instils pride. Programs like these provide the dual benefit of gaining qualifications while amassing practical experience.

If you had one bit of advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship with STS, what would it be?

Embrace the journey. With STS, not only will the apprentices’ benefit from top-tier training, but the organisation will witness growth and positive change in its workforce.

Dagan Jackson, Apprentice Team Member at Leathes Head Hotel:

I am currently completing a Level 2 Apprentice Hospitality Team Member at Leathes Head Hotel with Skern training and Skills. I have been on programme for almost a year and getting ready for my EPA. The programme has assisted me within my job role and has given me the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfil my job role and has given me a broader understanding of the hospitality industry and what it has to offer. The support I have received from the training specialist has been essential for me to move my career forward and I am learning new knowledge all the time which I can then translate into my own role and responsibilities. Completing an Apprentice programme is an excellent route into a great career and the supportive nature within Skern Training and Skills and my employer has been second to none.

Evanna Carlton Fitzgerald, Apprentice Manager at Inspiring Learning North Devon:

I am currently completing a Level 4 Apprentice Hospitality Manager programme at Skern training and Skills. I have been on a previous programme and completed my Level 3 achieving a Distinction grade. The programme has assisted me no end within my job role and has given me the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfil my job role and has given me a broader understanding of the hospitality industry and what it has to offer. The support I have received from the training specialist has been essential in order for me to move my career forward and I am learning new knowledge all the time which I can then translate into my own role and responsibilities. Completing an Apprentice programme is an excellent route into a great career and the supportive nature of Skern Training and Skills, and my employer has been paramount to my development.

Looking to start a similar journey? Discover our variety of Hospitality apprenticeships here