Young apprentice is toast of Westminster
Fraser honoured for great work in hospitality industry
NICOLA FINDLAY
An East Kilbride apprentice showcased his success at an event in the House of Commons.
Fraser Ferguson, 21, an apprentice at Tennent Caledonian met East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow MP, Dr Lisa Cameron, during the fourth annual Hospitality Apprenticeship Showcase held this month.
Former Duncanrig Secondary pupil Fraser took home a certificate to commend his contribution to hospitality and his part in changing the perception of the industry.
The event came at an important time, with attending businesses highlighting to MPs their current staff shortages, urging the government to do more to bridge the disconnect between job losses on flailing high streets and the burgeoning hospitality industry.
Fraser told the News: “After a year at Tennent Caledonian I believe this apprenticeship has improved my confidence and my ability to work in a fast paced environment.
“I have also gained a qualification which will allow me to progress further into the world of logistics.
“Overall it has been an enjoyable experience learning new skills and meeting new people.”
The reception saw more than 200 representatives from the hospitality industry and MPs from across the UK come together to celebrate the burgeoning sector, lifted up by the dedication of the young apprentices thriving within the companies where they work.
Dr Cameron said: “It was fantastic to meet with Fraser and to present him with his certificate during his Apprenticeship with Tennent Caledonian.
“I was extremely impressed by Fraser’s motivation to build a career in the hospitality industry and am keen to support apprenticeship opportunities across our constituency.
“Investing in our young people is key as they represent the future for East Kilbride.”
Minister Helen Whately MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism), addressed the apprentices and MPs.
She said: “We want to give visitors to the UK a world class welcome and that depends on having a skilled hospitality workforce.
“The Tourism Sector Deal is a bold commitment between Government and industry, and as part of this, our aim is for 30,000 apprenticeships to start each year to help strengthen the domestic workforce and support the future of the industry.”
Also speaking at the event was Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, who said: “Last year’s launch of the tourism sector deal demonstrated the government’s recognition of the vital contribution made by the leisure, hospitality and tourism industries.
“Post-Brexit however, the industry faces a very challenging period, as ending the free movement of people will invariably lead to skills shortages in certain areas.
“To fill the gaps, one obvious solution is to recruit more young British workers.
“Apprenticeships offer the perfect opportunity across all entry levels.
“The commitment to introduce 10,000 new apprenticeships in the sector each year is welcome.”