Dartford-based Harden Holidays started the scheme "to give back to the local community" after it became inundated with work experience requests. 

"Every year we receive dozens of requests for work experience placements, but we feel the concept is outdated and an inefficient use of time," manager Tim Harden told TTG.

"So this year, we came up with a programme to mentor and guide students through the final year of their travel and tourism course, with an aim to secure employment within the industry when their course is over."

The firm has put together a framework on how the scheme will work in 2023, which includes monthly one-to-one meetings with each student.

The initiative will also give students the opportunity to connect with experienced travel professionals across the industry, with meetings tailored to their preferred career path in the sector. 

"For us, it’s all about giving a helping hand where we can," Harden continued. "Schemes such as this are of great benefit to those who need to get a foot in the door.

"Once you gain a little confidence and experience, there are plenty or exciting roles within our industry, but it can be hard to get that initial experience and companies can definitely offer support in providing that."

Harden advised other agencies and travel companies to reach out to local educational establishments and "share their knowledge and expertise" to help "inspire students" looking to begin a career in travel.

"We attend job fairs each year to shed more light on career paths and current job vacancies, and have also delivered several practical sessions, putting their curriculum into context with real life situations. The feedback has been really uplifting," Harden concluded.