Budget hotel Travelodge will be looking for a further 125 management apprentices in 2012, according to chief executive Guy Parsons.

Today the chain’s first batch of 33 apprentices started work on the firm’s JuMP (Junior Management Programme), a fast-track route into management which provides A-level students the opportunity to continue their education, obtain work experience, receive a salary and become a manager by the age of 21.

Travelodge plans to have 1,100 hotels by 2025 and is offering 500 management apprenticeships. By 2015, it anticipates 45% of new hotels being managed by JuMP apprentices.

Parsons says: “I have been overwhelmed by the interest we have had for our new JuMP programme. During the recruitment period we were inundated with thousands of applications. The calibre of candidates has been outstanding. I am so looking forward to watching our new apprentices develop into future leaders of our business.

“At the end of the year, we will start the recruitment process for our 2012 class, where we are looking to fulfil 125 positions.”