Apprentice Travel Advisor Review

I work as a normal travel advisor as much as possible. The first few months were spent learning how to be a travel advisor, however I am now working the same as any other member of staff. My colleagues are very supportive and will help me as much as possible. I get given daily tasks as my colleagues do, meaning this becomes my responsibility. I have apprenticeship work that needs to be completed by certain deadlines, and again it is my responsibility to ensure I am getting enough time to do this.

I have learnt loads of new skills, from learning the systems and which companies will offer what I need, to learning new people skills. I have developed my confidence massively since I have been working for TUI. I have done a few training courses, most of which have been in my shop, but others have been when I have visited other stores, and when I went to Luton as an induction course.

I do really enjoy this apprenticeship, there are times where it gets difficult, as with any job, but it is really rewarding. After a good day, you go home feeling really good. My store is quite small, with only 6 members of staff, so teamwork is really important in our store. We all get on really well, and help each other through the day.

The course is really well organised, we start by coming into the store and working for a couple of weeks, and then we go on an induction course in Luton, or a location which is closest to the store. We stay here for 2 nights and go to head office to learn. We get study time at work and an online system which lays out the tasks that we have to do.

I receive loads of support from my manager, colleagues, assessor and any members of staff from other sections, such as HR. They are all really supportive and want me to do well, but they do also push me to do the best I can do, which does get stressful at times.

My manager and assistant manager ensure that I get time out the back to do some work, although I do sometimes have to ask for this to ensure I am getting enough time. My assessor is brilliant at giving me advise and recommendations. She is very supportive and will answer any questions I have quickly.

One part of the apprenticeship is learning about different countries, therefore in many of our journeys, we have to do a project about different areas of the world. This is a good way of teaching us information, and then putting it into a power point to show case the information.

We don't have any extra curriculum activities for staff members as far as I am aware. However, we do go out for Christmas meals! We also have a charity called the TUI care foundation. I am the shops representative for this, so I am very involved in this project.

Yes

TUI is a good company to work for, and in my experience the team work is really important. It has developed my confidence massively which I really needed. They have taught me loads of new skills, and have given me loads of support to exceed in the industry and become a travel advisor

I would suggest that anyone applying puts a lot of effort in to their application, as well as their presentation. I produced a lengthy power point presentation and made note cards to support me. I would also suggest making an effort with your appearance for the interview as this gives a good first impression. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions when you are struggling as everyone is there to support you.