Peter Thomas urges more Government funding for pub apprenticeships

Speaking at the BII’s Annual Lunch at the Grosvenor House yesterday (8 May), Thomas called on Government to get funding in place for Licensed Hospitality Apprenticeships as a matter of urgency.

Cuts in Government spending have resulted in lower rates of funding for new apprenticeship frameworks than for existing schemes, such as the recently-launched BII Level 2 Apprenticeship in Licensed Hospitality.

BII, in conjunction with the ALMR and BBPA, is calling for an urgent review of the funding attached to the Level 2 Apprenticeship The case is currently with the Skills Funding Agency and the National Apprenticeship Service as part of the review process.

In his first public address since taking on the BII’s chief executive role full-time, Thomas said that without full and proper financing, the sector was being deprived of opportunities to attract, train and help the next generation of professional licensees succeed and prosper.

Thomas said: “The future is about young people. The future is about doing our bit to help them into work. To help them find self worth and self esteem in employment. Today we have had a brilliant example of what is possible – of what can be done.

“Our Licensee of the Year, Mahdis Neghabian, at 31, with over six years’ experience, has been growing the business by more than 20% a year since 2009. Mahdis represents the way forward: education, training, supportive employers, plus a responsibility about what our business is about. A focus on what can be done.”

Thomas also said there would be a tougher stance on tackling misuse of the BII name and logo. “Our logo is precious. At times it is used in the wrong place and in the wrong way by the wrong people. I intend to do something about this.

“If you are not a recognised, qualified member, or if you don’t have 2012 approval to use our name and logo, then I will be talking to you. I am not prepared to see our logo and all it stands for devalued or misused.”

In references to plans for reorganisation, Thomas said his focus was firmly set on the future. Yesterday, BII members voted in favour of implementing a restructure of the organisation that will see it slimmed down in a bid to save money.

It’s time, he said, to “look ahead, to get on board with e-learning, social networks, new technology, new communications and set a new agenda for our business”.

He added: “It’s time to look ahead at the 21st century needs of our members and their business aspirations.”

Thomas concluded: “BII has had 30 great years. I am going go work hard to put it on the right track for the next 10 years and beyond.”