The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel has welcomed the first student on to its new chef apprenticeship programme, designed to develop the next generation of culinary professionals.
19-year-old Jacob Poynton has been enrolled on the bespoke programme at the five-star hotel, which offers students the chance to gain experience in a commercial kitchen environment whilst completing a nationally recognised commis chef qualification.
Jacob is one of 11 budding chefs taking part in the programme at various Macdonald Hotels & Resorts throughout the UK.
The course, which will last 15 months, will offer tailored training to each candidate under the guidance of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts chefs, and will include masterclasses on a variety of culinary skills, including: fish, butchery, pastry, game, bread and dough.
The full-time course, which is fully funded by Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, has been developed in partnership with one of Britain’s most prestigious training providers, Babcock International, to provide a nationally recognised culinary qualification.
A Babcock International trainer will support each candidate through their qualification, along with individual mentoring at their workplace from the head chef and sous chef.
Upon completion of the course, apprentices will sit an independently assessed exam that includes both theoretical and practical skills.
Stephen Browning, general manager at Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel said: “The introduction of the chef apprentice course illustrates a commitment from Macdonald Hotels & Resorts to invest in the next generation of top chefs.
“By providing the students with the highest standard of training possible, we can best prepare them for a successful future career within hospitality.
“To make your mark in this industry you need ambition, appreciation for detail and talent. Through this program, myself and the wider team will mentor these young students as they discover their passion and develop their skills.”
Richard Jupp, Babcock National Account Manager, said: “We take great pride in our versatility as one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship training providers and we’re excited about our partnership with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts which supports the recruitment and training of future talented new chefs to the hotel group.
“Working closely with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts our training team has designed a tailor-made Commis Chef Apprenticeship programme which provides new aspiring young chefs the opportunity to work with some of hospitality’s leading figures and to learn the practical skills necessary to be a successful Commis Chef.
“With its main focus on hands-on learning the programme features bespoke workshops and masterclasses in Butchery, Fish, Offal, Game, Bread, & Pastry.”
