Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeships Programme

Why this programme?

The leadership pipeline is running dry

Hospitality has lost most of its traditional graduate schemes, leaving fewer routes into leadership roles. The Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship Programme, developed by HIT Training and UKHospitality, creates a new pathway - combining real work, structured training, and degree-level qualifications to grow future leaders from within your business.

Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship Programme

"The sector must act now
to secure future leaders"

- Trouble Brewing Whitepaper

How the Programme Works

A 5-year pathway from entry to senior leadership

This structured programme connects three apprenticeships with Skills Bridges in between, building leadership at every level. Apprentices gain real-world experience while working towards nationally recognised qualifications, culminating in Chartered Manager (CMgr) status with the Chartered Management Institute.

8 months

Level 3 Supervising Hospitality

Develops core leadership skills including team motivation, shift management, and confident decision-making. Builds a strong foundation in hospitality operations and customer service, preparing individuals to take on greater responsibility and lead day-to-day performance.

Suggested starting age: 16 - 19

15 months

Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager

Develops core leadership skills including team motivation, shift management, and confident decision-making. Builds a strong foundation in hospitality operations and customer service, preparing individuals to take on greater responsibility and lead day-to-day performance.

Suggested starting age: 16 - 19

24 months

Level 7 Senior Hospitality Leader

Sharpens strategic leadership with a focus on vision, direction, and long-term planning. Builds confidence in leading change, managing large-scale teams and budgets, and influencing culture across an organisation.

Suggested starting age: under 22

Graduation

CMgr Chartered Manager

Upon completion apprentices will become a fully accredited Chartered Manager with the CMI, and entitled to use the post-nominal letters CMgr.

Added value

Each apprentice will receive a 12 month apprentice affiliate membership to the Institute of Hospitality (IoH). Each apprentice will be invited to complete a complimentary Level 1 Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health.

NI saving for employers of apprentices over 25

For apprentices under 25, employers do not have to pay Class 1 employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on earnings up to the Upper Secondary Threshold (UST).

Why this programme?

Benefits for Employers & Apprentices

Employers

Secure a sustainable leadership pipeline.

Increase retention and engagement.

Save recruitment costs by growing talent.

Training fully funded via Apprenticeship Levy.

NIC savings for apprentices under 25.

Apprentices

Earn while learning - no student debt.

Gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Build real management experience.

Free membership to Institute of Hospitality.

Graduate as a Chartered Manager

Recruitment & Application Process

How to get started

Employers can enrol existing staff or recruit new apprentices. HIT supports with recruitment, pre-screening, and assessment if required.

01

Application &
Screening

02

Assessment Day
& Interview

These steps will be repeated for the level 3, 5 and 7 apprenticeship programmes

03

Induction &
Learning Plan

04

On-Programme
Coaching

05

Gateway Review

06

End-Point
Assessment &
Graduation

Safeguarding & Support

Support every step of the way

Apprentices are supported by a HIT trainer/coach, workplace mentor, and safeguarding team. Parents receive regular updates, and employers receive quarterly reviews. Apprentices also access learning support, masterclasses, and wellbeing resources. Together we ensure every learner thrives in a safe and inclusive environment.

What are you looking for?

Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship Programme