According to The Times almost a fifth (19.1%) of A-Level entries received an A*, an increase from 14.3% last year across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the A-Level results, Nicholls said: “After such a challenging year with significant disruption, the 2021 cohort deserve a huge congratulations for their A-level results and the hospitality looks forward to welcoming many into sector as they take their first steps in their careers post-education.”

Pre-Covid the hospitality sector represented 10% of UK employment and offered a range of careers in finance, marketing, and sales, as well as floor and bar positions.

Nicholls added: “The sector provides young people with an array of skills they can take on in and use in life and avenues for real progression up the career ladder.

“Many of our CEOs in the industry started on the restaurant floor or behind the bar and it will be tremendously exciting to see the next influx of young people enter our sector and watch them progress.

“After 18 months that has brought severe disruption to education, hospitality and the wider economy, we are working closely with government, so the industry can be at the forefront of the recovery as a dynamic sector of growth and providing fulfilling careers for millions.”