Top 10 tips for finding and recruiting hospitality apprentices

City of Bristol College’s Clare Vertigen kicks off the New Year with tips about how to find and recruit apprentices who will have the potential to grow and thrive in your business, helping to support and build the future of your team. 

Many hospitality businesses tell us the biggest challenge isn’t how they advertise roles – it’s knowing where to find potential apprentices in the first place. Drawing on years of experience supporting local employers, City of Bristol College’s Clare Vertigen shares a practical guide to building the right connections and recruiting apprentices who will thrive.

City of Bristol College and The South West Apprenticeship Company (SWAC) have been supporting the hospitality industry with apprentice recruitment for many years. Apprenticeships bring fresh energy, loyal talent, and long-term growth to businesses. However, success starts with how you recruit.

1. Advertise the role in the right way

Be clear and transparent about what the role involves, including hours, expectations, and progression. This helps candidates apply with open eyes and avoids surprises later.

2. Promote your brand and opportunity

Hospitality is about people; showcase your team culture, values, and career progression paths. A strong story about why your business is a great place to work can inspire the right candidates.

3. Write inclusive and engaging adverts

Keep job descriptions simple but clear. Highlight the skills they will gain, the tasks they will do, and any progression opportunities. Remember, to use inclusive language that welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.

4. Build the right connections – this is where most apprenticeships begin

For many hospitality businesses, the biggest challenge isn’t attracting applicants – it’s knowing where to find potential apprentices in the first place. Building links with local colleges and training providers is often the most effective route.

Organisations like City of Bristol College and SWAC work directly with motivated young people who are eager to begin their hospitality careers.

By engaging early – even before you have a vacancy – you can meet potential apprentices through college referrals, work experience, industry events, employer open days, and National Apprenticeship Week activities.

Training providers can also help you understand which apprenticeship standards are available, where to advertise roles and how to match candidates to your business, saving time and increasing the likelihood of a successful long-term hire.

Myth 1: Apprentices only come through formal job adverts.
Reality: Many start through schools, colleges, referrals, work experience, and training provider networks.

Myth 2: Apprenticeships are only for manual trades or entry-level roles.
Reality: Apprenticeships are available in nearly all sectors and can be a pathway to enhance careers, supporting progression, employer productivity, and long-term staff loyalty.

5. Use your team as ambassadors

Encourage staff to refer potential apprentices and share your vacancy within their networks. Candidates trust word-of-mouth, and your current team can be your best advocates.

6. Plan your interview questions and be consistent

Decide what matters most: is it previous experience, or is it the right attitude and culture fit? Which skills can be taught on the job? Keep interviews structured so you can fairly compare candidates.  We have a guide for this too!

7. Assess for attitude and potential, not just experience

Look for motivation, willingness to learn, and strong customer service values. Use situational or values-based questions to draw out how they think, not just what they’ve done. A question like “what makes you go home after a day at work with a big smile on your face and feeling really motivated for the next day?” can really tell you a lot about a person.

8. Offer realistic previews

Hospitality can be demanding. Offering trial shifts, taster days, or shadowing opportunities allows candidates to see the role in action and helps you gauge how they respond.

9. Plan ahead for their arrival

Have a structured induction plan and assign a mentor or buddy. A warm welcome sets the tone and helps apprentices settle quickly into your team and your way of working.

10. Communicate and support every step

Keep candidates updated throughout the process, provide timely feedback, and celebrate offers with enthusiasm. Clear communication and early support build loyalty and reduce dropouts.

Apprenticeships are not just about filling roles; they are about building the future of your team and the wider hospitality industry. With the right approach, you can recruit apprentices who will grow, thrive, and become the leaders of tomorrow.

If you’d like support with making the right connections, understanding which apprenticeship fits your business, or accessing City of Bristol College’s free recruitment service, get in touch with our team at City of Bristol College.

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