FOURTEEN apprentices have started their training with Premier Inns in Dorset.

The recruits, aged 16-25, from across the county, began their apprenticeships at the Premier Inn Bournemouth Central, at Westover Road.

Their apprenticeship is designed and delivered by Premier Inn and gives access to an NVQ qualification along with a chance to improve their English and Maths.

Apprentice Katie Huckle said: “Myself and the other apprentices strongly agree that the course brings great opportunities for all of us, teaching us brilliant organisation and team work, while also gaining a fantastic qualification.”

Each apprentice will work across two departments in the hotel and gain on-the-job knowledge, as well as attending courses designed by Premier Inn.

The Bournemouth hotel hosted the Big Conversation in April, part of a nationwide campaign to promote the hospitality sector to young people. All the business at the event pledged to create more apprentices.

Ed Pyke, cluster general manager of Bournemouth and Poole Premier Inns, said on the apprentices’ first day: “Today marks the start of a fantastic opportunity for these young people and will give them solid skills and opportunities which will benefit them not just immediately but in the years to come.”