UK’s largest holiday park operator initiates government-backed recruitment drive with 550 vacancies

Newcastle headquartered Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, has relaunched recruitment for the Kickstart scheme across the business after the success of last year’s programme.

With 550 current vacancies and 375 trainees already recruited since the first launch in 2021, the Government scheme will offer more young people the opportunities and skills needed to succeed in the hospitality industry and will give them the chance to launch a new career at one of Parkdean’s 67 parks across the UK.

The new programme will allow individuals to pursue a Guest Experience Trainee role in an area of their choice, with roles available in Accommodation, Food and Beverage, Reception, Sport and Leisure, and Entertainment.

Trainees will benefit from a package offering them a minimum of 25 hours work per week for £9 per hour, and they will also receive uniform and an Alcatel tablet to support their training.

With the recruitment process due to be held fortnightly from January 18, the relaunch of the scheme comes after the success of last year’s programme, which achieved a 100 per cent employment rate since its launch.

Lisa Charles-Jones, HR Director, Parkdean Resorts, said: “We’re thrilled to be relaunching the Kickstart scheme after having such great success last year.

“We decided to take part in the Kickstart scheme as we wanted to give young people the opportunity to learn and develop new skills, and this is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate just how rewarding a career in hospitality can be whilst giving young people the skills they need to succeed.

“We’re delighted with the success of the scheme to date and we look forward to welcoming our new trainees soon.”