Partington’s Holiday Parks, a family-owned leisure operator in the North West of England, has introduced a corporate training initiative to develop its next tier of management staff.

The Hospitality Associates Programme offers structured operational training across the company’s portfolio, which spans caravans and holiday parks in Lancashire, the Lake District, and the Yorkshire Dales. The scheme is designed to provide vocational pathways within the UK's regional domestic tourism sector, an industry that contributes significantly to the rural economy of Northern England.

Under the new programme, participants are employed on fixed-term contracts of either one or two years. Trainees undergo rotational placements across multiple operational business units, including front-of-house hospitality, food and beverage catering, retail, housekeeping, leisure services, and grounds maintenance.

The initiative is split into two operational tiers: Level 1 focuses on preparing candidates for supervisory responsibilities, while Level 2 delivers advanced management and leadership training. Upon successful completion of the fixed-term contract, participants are guaranteed a formal interview for a permanent management or supervisory position within the group.

The corporate structure of Partington’s Holiday Parks is currently overseen by joint Chief Executives Rob Kearsley and Andrea Challis, representing the fourth generation of family leadership since the company’s inception. The launch comes amid broader efforts across the UK leisure sector to address post-pandemic recruitment shortages by establishing internal talent pipelines.

Andrea Challis, CEO of Partington’s Holiday Parks, commented: "We are immensely proud of the new Associate Programme and the fantastic individuals who’ve already taken part. It’s not just another job – it’s a unique chance to start a meaningful career path, learn valuable skills and become part of our close-knit team.

“At Partington’s, we believe in nurturing talent and giving people the confidence, skills and experience to build something truly rewarding. Whether you’re fresh out of school, seeking a career change, or simply looking to gain experience in a fast-paced and supportive environment; this opportunity is designed for you. We can’t wait to welcome the next wave of passionate team members to join the Partington’s family!"

Emma Savage, a 29-year-old Corporate Hospitality Associate from Cleveleys, Lancashire, who is completing her first year of the curriculum, added: “I joined the programme because it offers the chance to gain hands-on experience across so many different areas of the business - from front of house and reception to housekeeping, bars and entertainment. It’s also helped me to develop new skills, build confidence and meet lots of different people along the way. What makes the experience even more rewarding is being part of a well-established, family-run business that genuinely invests in people and supports their development.”

Applications are now open and places on the scheme are filling up fast! To apply, visit www.partingtons.com/vacancies/hospitality-associate or email your CV and a short covering note to people@partingtons.com