14 Feb 2025by Katherine Masters
As National Apprenticeship Week draws to a close, we salute the young agents who have aced their training and been rewarded with permanent positions in retail stores
Every year, thousands of apprentices join the retail travel industry, combining training with practical experience, and many go on to enjoy long, successful careers in travel. But how can young apprentices make their mark and become indispensable to their new employers? We’ve asked five managers to nominate five apprentices, who have become star members of their teams.
1. Display a ‘can do’ attitude
Emmie Insull, Hays Travel’s Allestree branch
Manager Kelly Irvine says: “Emmie’s apprenticeship began in August 2022, and she completed this in April 2024. During this time, Emmie championed the apprenticeship programme in a Hays Travel advertising campaign, sharing her transformative journey from self-doubt to confidence. She also participated in the Discovery Nights programme, inspiring future apprentices with her career journey – notably, Emmie was awarded Advanced Apprentice of the Year at the National Apprenticeships and Skills Awards’ East Midlands final 2024.
Emmie Insull
“Emmie’s willingness to learn is down to her ‘can do’ attitude. For me, the icing on the cake was when, after winning her regional apprenticeship award, Emmie was nominated for National Apprentice of the Year. I travelled to London with her and, although she didn’t win, this has never hindered the willingness, drive, and confidence that she has discovered throughout her time at Hays Travel. I can’t wait to see where the rest of her travel journey will take her.”
2. Turn customers into raving fans
Charlotte Blomeley – Tui’s Denton Superstore
Manager Hannah Barton says: “Charlotte outstanding customer service has made her the most reviewed member of the team on our Facebook page, with customers raving about how she makes a difference to them with her positive attitude and personal attention. She’s smashed her first TOY, hitting her passenger target within the first two weeks, and hasn’t let a recent MS diagnosis slow her down or dent her ambition and drive. She’s an inspiration to me, as well as her colleagues, motivating everyone to ‘come as you are’ and not let anything stand in your way.“
Charlotte Blomeley
3. Create engaging content that drives footfall
Maddison Woolridge, Tui’s Walsall Superstore
Manager Victoria McConnell says: “Heading for a distinction, I’ve been impressed as much by Maddison’s five-star Facebook reviews from customers as by her dedication to create content that engages with the local community and to encourage footfall into the shop. She really understands what’s going to resonate with clients and has a natural ability to connect with them and conjure up the fun and excitement of going on holiday in her interactions. So it’s not surprising that her sales record is as impressive as her social media skills.“
Maddison Woolridge
4. Share your digital expertise
Amelia Tring – Tui Hempstead Valley
Manager Ben Touceda says: “Amelia’s understanding of the importance of a successful online presence has led her to be ‘hired’ as the main Facebook expert in our branch. She’s trained two other team members to upskill them to help maintain and manage the stores pages. She’s a driving force within the team coming with digiboard deals which have enticed many walk-ins, resulting in bookings. Her all-round work ethic, dedication to team work and her customers spurred me on to nominate her for a Tui Annual Recognition award – Amelia was one of three finalists acknowledged as extraordinary apprentices, excelling in their roles.“
Amelia Tring
5. Back yourself to grow
Sophie Chambers, Worldchoice Travel in Chesterfield
Manager Laurie Allison says: “Sophie started her role as a shy young lady who initially hesitated to serve customers from behind the desk and found the start of her apprenticeship challenging. However, over time, she blossomed into a confident professional who warmly acknowledges every customer with a smile. She successfully completed her apprenticeship with a distinction, demonstrating outstanding knowledge gained from both her studies and colleagues. Her dedication and growth were further recognized when she won ‘Newcomer of the Year’ at our annual conference, an achievement that reflects her hard work, enthusiasm, and the positive impact she has made on the team. We never had any doubt about offering Sophie a full-time role after her apprenticeship, and we’re excited to see her continue to thrive in her career.”
Next Article Travel goals: from apprentice to looking after 331 shops
