Boles was re-selected as Skills Minister at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills last Monday (11 May), as David Cameron unveiled his new-look Cabinet.
The Conservative Party has pledged to create three million new apprenticeships by the end of this Parliament.
Simon Tarr, managing director of People 1st, said: “The hospitality industry can play a major role in helping realise the Government’s ambitions for apprenticeships.
“Over 17,000 apprentices completed hospitality apprenticeships last year alone. With hospitality currently projected to recruit 993,000 employees by 2022, including 229,000 in skilled and management roles, apprentices will continue to play a critical role in developing skilled staff in the years to come.“
Hospitality employers, with the support of People 1st, have come together as a part of a Government Trailblazer to develop new apprenticeship standards for the hospitality industry.
Sandra Kelly, Head of Education, Whitbread and member of the Hospitality Trailblazer, commented: “This is an exciting and critical crossroads for the apprenticeship reform and we look forward to working with the new minister.
“The new apprenticeships will measure competence against an established industry standard, and employer assessment models should be welcomed and supported by the Government and not discouraged.”
Employers are strongly encouraged to share their views on the new apprenticeship system via the People 1st consultation which is open until the 29th May, the outcome of which will be reported to Government in early June.