The award recognises an employer’s commitment to developing its workforce throughout apprenticeships and supporting employees during their training.
Simon Smith, CEO of SSP UK and Ireland said; “We have invested heavily in developing SSP’s apprenticeship programme, and we are delighted to be shortlisted for this award.
“We are certain that it will do much to raise the profile of our programme, and we believe it will help us to encourage more young people to consider a career in this fantastic business as well as emphasising SSP’s position as the first choice for a career in hospitality. It’s an outstanding endorsement of the quality of our scheme.”
Entries to the award were judged on how the organisation’s apprenticeship programme has a focus on the learner, has significant impact on the learner’s performance, and has been supported beyond the level expected by businesses of a similar size.
It also recognises programmes that have developed in line with the company’s wider aims and objectives, and address the needs of the wider community.
SSP’s apprenticeship programme was launched five years ago and has trained over 2,500 apprentices. It currently employs 260 apprentices across a variety of programmes.
Apprentices can join the business at Level 2 and progress to level 3, 4 and 5 while performing their every-day roles. Over half of those who complete Level 3 are promoted into management roles.