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The hospitality industry benefits from a proud history of being non-ageist. People are just as likely to see a senior hospitality manager in their mid-20s as you are one in their mid-50s, and there are opportunities for people of all working ages to embrace.
With the recruitment crisis currently facing our industry, offering retraining or upskilling opportunities for the over-50s – who make up a large proportion of the workforce – is an effective way to foster a diverse and skilled team.
Exceptional Experience
We’ve seen a much bigger focus on promoting a diverse workforce over recent years, but one of the facets that doesn’t get talked about so often is age. We should be embracing the many benefits that older employees can bring.
Not only can they share valuable life experience with their co-workers, but it’s likely that some of the skills they’ve gained in their previous roles can often be harnessed in hospitality. For example, any job with a customer service element can build skills that are much needed in our field – it’s just about unlocking that within the hospitality context.
The Value of Lifelong Learning
Regardless of age, apprenticeships are an ideal way for people to re-skill or to build on the skills they already have, whether they’re new to hospitality or want to progress further.
For years, they’ve mostly been seen as an option for school leavers, but there’s no age limit on apprenticeships. Both employees and employers are increasingly recognising the benefits of training at any age, especially as our working lives are getting longer.
In fact, the over-50s tend to have a higher success rate in their apprenticeships than any other age group. HIT Training apprentices in the over-50s bracket have seen a 15% higher pass rate than the 16–18-year-olds and have the lowest dropout rate of all age groups. They are also less likely to take a break in their learning.
We’re Here to Help
At HIT, we understand the nuances that come with learning at all ages, and that’s why we can point employers in the right direction, to ensure those aged 50 and over can reach their (limitless!) potential.
And when it comes to over-50s, those useful skills they’re likely to have picked up throughout their working lives could lead to shorter apprenticeships and therefore reduced costs for their employers. Our experience will enable you to navigate the various options available.
We can help you get to know what these valuable team members can learn, and which apprenticeship route will benefit them most.
Protecting the Future of the Sector: Hospitality Businesses Pledge to Fund Apprenticeships Outside Their Organisation
The Newt in Somerset Unveils ‘Elevate’ – A Bespoke Hospitality Academy in partnership with HIT Training
HIT Training Elevates Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion by Becoming Patrons of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance
HIT Training Ltd named “Learning Provider of the Year” at the 2025 Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards
HIT Training Ltd scoops the award for Best Training Provider at the prestigious Apprenticeship Guide Awards
HIT Training launches intelligent apprenticeship recruitment service for hospitality and retail, in partnership with urfuture
HIT Training and The Clink Charity announce new partnership to launch apprenticeships for serving prisoners
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