IoH Academic Partner, HIT Training, has launched its new Hospitality Academy, a forward-thinking training initiative designed to help hospitality businesses enhance service standards, develop future leaders, and build resilient, guest-focused teams.
Created in collaboration with industry experts Michael Heppell and Paul Martin, the Academy responds to the key challenges facing the sector, from staff shortages and rising customer expectations to increased competition. It offers practical, business-led training through immersive workshops and real-world learning, focusing on both technical service skills and essential leadership and mindset development.
A standout feature is the Hearts & Minds Learning Suite, embedded within apprenticeship programmes to blend service excellence with personal and professional growth. Two targeted masterclasses, The Art of Service and Service Experience, further support frontline teams in delivering exceptional, memorable guest experiences.
“This is about shaping the future of service,” said Paul Mannering, National Hospitality and Culinary Lead at HIT Training. “We’ve built a programme that meets today’s needs and prepares teams to thrive in a guest-driven world.”
The Academy is open to businesses of all sizes nationwide.
Explore the HIT Hospitality Academy
HIT Training Employer Survey
In line with its commitment to future-focused training, HIT Training has also developed a short employer survey in response to proposed apprenticeship reforms. From August 2025 (subject to legislation), the minimum apprenticeship duration will reduce from 12 to 8 months, a change expected to impact Level 2 programmes across hospitality, care, retail, early years, and funeral services.
HIT Training is inviting employers to share their views on how this change might influence recruitment and upskilling decisions. The survey is quick to complete, and input will help shape support for the sector going forward.