The new scheme titled JuMP (Junior Management Programme) is a fast track route into management and provides A -level students (18+) with an alternative to going to university. On this programme school leavers can continue their education, obtain work experience, receive a salary and become a manager by the age of 21.
The bespoke JuMP scheme has been developed to support Travelodge's aggressive growth strategy. In addition, to supporting the Chancellor's appeal for British companies to generate more high valueapprenticeship placements; in a bid to help the one million out of work youngsters into the workplace.
Travelodge is offering 500 management apprenticeships and is kick starting its search for its first 50 apprentices this summer.
Guy Parsons, Travelodge CEO, said: "Our nationwide JuMP programme offers school leavers an alternative career choice, to going to university. The fast track management programme provides a real job, with the opportunity of on the job training throughout the business, combined with further education and the opportunity to earn up to £30,000. In contrast to going to university and graduating with debt and facing an over crowded jobs market."
Skills Minister John Hayes said: "Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to get the training they need to build successful careers, and for businesses to train a new generation of employees with the skills that drive growth. I applaud Travelodge for its commitment to apprenticeships; and with additional funding of £180m in this budget alone, this government is enabling more employers to follow its lead".
In support of its JuMP scheme, Travelodge surveyed British youngsters aged 16 to 18 years old, to gain their views on going to university and apprenticeships. It found 71% of respondents are questioning the value of going to university due to the rising costs and the apparent lack of graduate jobs in the current market.
But more than half (51%) of school leavers think it's vital to have a degree to become a manager in a major UK company.
Parsons added: "In response to our survey findings, it's right that today's youth should be concerned about their future. In today's economic climate, going to university does not guarantee a job upon graduation. It's also very concerning that school leavers don't really know the cost of going to university and think its £22,000 when the reality is more than double this figure as stated by the Government. Also there is a lot of naivety around apprenticeship schemes and the UK tourism industry.
"Therefore, I am hopeful that our JuMP initiative will help dismiss these outdated, snobbish views and that today's youth will see the potential of becoming a leader; in a powerhouse industry of the future." A JuMP apprentice is expected to earn in total between £25,000 to £30,000 from training to graduation.
