Chefs Jobs UK recruitment consultant Amy Hutcheson and executive chef Simon Bower met with catering students at Accrington and Rossendale College [Wednesday 11th March] as part of National Apprenticeship Week to discuss what it’s like to work in the hospitality and catering industry.

The team presented to around 30 Catering and Hospitality students at the college’s recently opened state-of-the-art training kitchens.

Chefs Jobs UK’s Amy Hutcheson, a qualified sommelier and former general manager of Nigel Haworth’s Ribble Valley Inns and Seafood Pub Company, began the presentation by asking the aspiring students what drew them to a career in hospitality, as well as discussing the different sectors within the industry and the students’ employability.

Simon then spoke about his experience within the catering industry, which varies from Michelin Star restaurants and, five star hotels, to event catering and high-end catering supplies, working with names including Northcote Manor, Formby Hall Hotel and Wellocks.

He said: “Commitment and the need to be prepared to learn and listen to the advice given by more experienced chefs is essential in order to be successful in the catering industry, where a passion and enthusiasm are required to excel.”

The event was wrapped up with an open question forum, with the students asking questions based about the qualities of a good chef, pay scales, apprenticeships, front-of-house opportunities and advice on how to progress their career.

Amy Hutcheson said: “The students were extremely receptive and we hope they found the talk inspirational. Chefs Jobs UK is extremely passionate about helping young people in the workplace and has a real involvement in supporting apprenticeship initiatives. A quarter of our workforce is either a current or former apprentice, with some now working in senior management.

“Employers have a responsibility to support the development of talented individuals and to encourage young people not to miss out on opportunities to work in the industry. Students can gain invaluable experience by working part-time in order to gain skills and qualifications whilst earning a wage. With a candidate skills shortage in the catering and hospitality industry, employers must encourage young professionals to join their establishments to ensure that there is talent coming through.”

For more information go to www.chefsjobsuk.com.