Applications open for Scotland's Government-backed management training programme

The virtual programme was one of the key recommendations of the Tourism Task Force, which provided independent recommendations for Scottish Ministers and the UK Government on what was needed to support tourism and hospitality in Scotland. 

There will be 975 places available for this programme, with 13 groups of 25 people able to take part in each of the three categories - Supervisor, Manager and Leader.

The programme is now open for applications​ ​to anyone over the age of 16 working in the country's hospitality and tourism industry.

The closing date for application is 5 February with the programme starting on 16 February.

Candidates must be working full time or part time or can be on full or part time furlough.

If an individual has been made redundant within 2020/21 due to Covid-19) they must have a strong connection to the business and be expected to return as soon as restrictions relax

Application should be made by the business owner, a senior manager, or an HR professional, with permission from the business.

“With almost all of Scotland’s tourism and hospitality industries closed and thousands of employees currently either without work or in the limbo of continued furlough, it is vital that we protect and grow the talent and skillset that has enabled these sectors to deliver the warm, authentic service and exceptional experiences which Scotland is known for the world over," says STA chief executive Marc Crothall. 

"This announcement represents a shining light and hugely positive move forward in the darkest period our industry has ever experienced, with businesses closing either in the short term or permanently."