University of Gloucestershire is collaborating with Red Carnation Hotels, The Dorchester, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London and PPHE Hotel Group to deliver a new degree-level apprenticeship in hospitality management, from January 2024.

The apprenticeship combines the chartered manager degree apprenticeship with specialist modules designed specifically for those working in today's hospitality industry. Apprentices will be working for a top hotel brand while simultaneously studying for an honours degree in applied hospitality management from University of Gloucestershire.

Upon successful completion, apprentices will also qualify for chartered manager status from the Chartered Management Institute.

The programme marks a significant collaboration by the hotels involved, which have joined together with University of Gloucestershire to create an innovative solution to an industry-wide skills shortage.

Apprentices working for the different brands will learn together as a single cohort, sharing best practice and raising industry standards across the board. To best serve the requirements of these top London brands, teaching will be delivered via a 'flying faculty'.

This means lectures and seminars will take place in London, with learners able to access libraries and other support functions remotely.

The hotels are in the process of recruiting apprentices to join these programmes and all the vacancies are currently advertised on the UCAS website. University of Gloucestershire will be assisting by running a selection process, including possible candidate events in London.

It is hoped the opportunities will be attractive to those who wish to do a degree, but would prefer a more applied route to a traditional university education. As apprentices will be learning about the industry on the job, a wide range of experience and existing knowledge will be considered in determining if candidates are suitable.

Dr Polly Pick, director of business engagement and partnerships at University of Gloucestershire, said: "We are delighted to be launching this innovative new apprenticeship and to be working alongside these globally renowned brands in the process.

"Learners will benefit from access to a wider network of industry professionals, with a cohort also running on campus in Gloucester from September 2023.

"We really believe that this collaboration has the potential to change how talent is developed and managed in this crucial sector, and we hope that the cohorts starting in September and January will be the first of many."

Liz McGivern, vice-president people and culture for Red Carnation Hotels, said: "University of Gloucestershire truly listened to our needs and requirements and has been flexible and accommodating.

"Being a CMDA hospitality apprentice with University of Gloucestershire will put people a step ahead too. The university's reputation goes before it, and we are proud to be associated with it."

Paul McDonald, area director of people and culture at The Dorchester, said: "We are thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking apprenticeship in hospitality management. By offering apprentices the chance to work with leading names in hospitality, we aim to revolutionise talent development in the sector."