With so much talk about the hospitality industry struggling to fill thousands of jobs, we are delighted to welcome apprentice chefs, Ketan Dixon-Whiteaway and Jack Breach to our kitchen.
The youngsters are being supported on their career path thanks to a new apprenticeship programme offered at the Queens Hotel.
General Manager, Catherine Austen explained: “We are keen to promote the career opportunities that are available in hospitality. We want to develop the skills of our talented team.
“By offering an apprenticeship programme, we can develop the talent of the future. We can also help to retain team members who are gaining work experience at the same time as learning.”
Ketan,21, explained he has been working in local restaurants for a number of years. However, being supported to do his Level 3 qualification (the equivalent to an A Level) as part of a day-release at HSDC South Downs College means he can take his cooking skills to the next level.
“I love cooking and this will give me a chance to gain even more understanding as well as new skills.
“It would be great to be able to progress at the Queens and do more qualifications. Ultimately, I would love to run my own restaurant,” he said.
Jack,17, joined the kitchen team as a Kitchen Porter. Executive Chef, Simon Hartnett, soon spotted his potential and let him know about the apprenticeship programme.
“I enjoy doing different styles of cooking. I’m doing my Level 2 and loving it,” he said.
Simon said: “The great thing about working in a kitchen is that you can literally start as the pot washer and go all the way to the top. You just need a bit of determination.
“By offering the apprenticeship programme, we are helping people to progress in their career and providing the right structure for them to thrive.”
The Queens Hotel is developing more apprenticeship opportunities. Please take a look at our social media for more details.
20th September 2021