This month 40 apprentices from across Scotland received a warm
welcome from David Guile, Chief Executive of Macdonald Hotels &
Resorts as they celebrated 'graduation' within the hotel-groups
Modern Apprenticeship (MA) programme.
Established in December 2010 with an initial intake of 80
through a contract with Skills Development Scotland, the
apprentices, all full-time employees of Macdonald Hotels &
Resorts, follow a structured rolling programme. This is
directly linked to the standards set by the UK's largest privately
owned hotel group.
At any one time, the hotel group runs approximately 60
apprenticeships at various levels (1-3) and all for individuals
aged from 17-years old. On successful completion of their
12-18 month long training, graduates receive a nationally
recognised award which reflects their skills and level of
competence within their chosen role from food and beverage to
housekeeping and front office.
David Guile commented: "Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is
committed to providing the highest standards of product and
service. From front of house to food and beverage and back
office functions, we are passionate about providing the highest
possible standards of training and career development and rewarding
those individuals who wish to improve their skills and excel in
hospitality.
"We are extremely proud of our apprentices, who have worked
extremely hard within their hotels to earn the right to graduate
with invaluable skills and recognised industry
qualifications.
Caroline Bellenger, HR Director of Macdonald Hotels &
Resorts, added: "Since we initiated the programme two years ago,
the modern apprenticeship programme has had a positive impact
across the group. This includes staff retention, increasing
self confidence, maximising opportunities for personal development
and further enhancing the quality of customer care. Moreover,
the scheme has provided a clear career path for those who commence
at Level 2, with approximately 16 gaining a supervisory position
following graduation."
