Leisure and travel giant TUI is to create more than 2,000 new apprentices in the UK by 2020 – the latest sign that the “earn as you learn” pathway is becoming increasingly popular among those looking for a career in leisure and tourism.

According to Caroline Kitcher, HR director at TUI UK & Ireland, the company is expanding its work-based training programmes ahead of the new Apprenticeship Levy, which is due to come in to effect in 2017.

“Offering 2,000 more apprenticeships – adding to the 5,500 we have trained in the last 15 years – is testament to our commitment to providing careers in our growing business,” she said.

“Working for TUI can open up a world of opportunities and we pride ourselves on providing our people with quality training and development, and career prospects both nationally and internationally. We can offer people looking for a job in leisure an extraordinary career, one that will really take you places – quite literally.”

TUI’s move to commit to apprenticeships has been backed by vocational education organisation City and Guilds of London Institute.

Kirstie Donnelly, managing director of City & Guilds said: “The pledge by TUI UK and Ireland demonstrates just how engaged an employer can be in apprenticeships and skills development.

“It recognises them as a natural mechanism to developing the talent it needs.

“In a period of uncertainty – ahead of the government providing more clarity around apprenticeship policy reforms and the levy – it shows real commitment that TUI is pressing ahead with its apprenticeship plans.

The government's new apprenticeship levy – set to come into force in April 2017 – will require all employers operating in the UK, with a pay bill over £3m each year, to make an investment in apprenticeships.

There will also be changes to the funding for apprenticeship training for all employers, although details of the changes have yet to be confirmed.