At The Tollemache Arms, we believe in developing careers and personalities within the hospitality industry. We want to create as many super stars within the industry as we possibly can even if they aren’t with us forever – we want young people to start their career with us and flourish.
When joining the company we make all employees aware of the opportunities we can offer through multiple apprenticeship options. We know not all will take us up on the offer be it is a comfort for us knowing that they know these options are available where they might not be aware through schooling and college that these options actually exist.
Currently, we have two apprentices within the pub. One on a Chef de Partie course with Hit Training and one on an Operations Management course with HIT. We took them on knowing they wanted to progress themselves further and build a career within the industry. We provided them with the information for the apprenticeship options and they returned keen with a course in mind. Both apprentices have thoroughly enjoyed their courses, bringing in the skills they have learnt into their job roles and making a difference.
Lewis has created some fantastic dishes for our menu and Cam has brought his knowledge of how to deal with staff, conflict and appraisals into the workplace. This has been a fantastic opportunity for them to use as case studies for their course work as well.
A career path within our industry is vast – the branches it offers is huge. The most exciting part of the industry is that you can start your career young and build your career and rise through the ranks very quickly if you are keen to progress. The industry is global and it can take you anywhere you want in the world. The skills you learn through apprenticeships with provide you with many opportunities wherever you are in the world.
Top tips
- Experience – push yourself out of your comfort zone to try out lots of different venues. Ask your employer if they know anyone else at another venue that you can swap shifts with for the day.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions – ask your employer about development and opportunities within the industry. Find other people within the industry and ask them questions. 99% of the time people will take the time out to offer advice and experience. We are all in the same boat and want to encourage as many people as possible to stay within the industry!
- If you are interested in progressing in the industry, shop around! Look at the apprenticeship options available online if your employer cannot offer. If you are interviewing for a job always ask the question, ‘is there any opportunity for further training or apprenticeships?’. You want to make sure you are working for an employer that wants to see you grow!
