A FIVE-star hotel in Chester has been celebrating its apprentices.

In recognition of National Apprentice Week, The Chester Grosvenor, has proudly highlighted its thriving apprenticeship scheme within its award-winning kitchens.

The hotel, known for its commitment to culinary excellence, recognises the pivotal role apprenticeships play in shaping highly skilled, talented chefs.

Elliot Hill, Executive Chef, is passionate about the apprenticeship programme and emphasised the significance of apprenticeships in the culinary world an article last year 'The Power of Apprenticeships in the Culinary World'. 

Drawing on his own experiences, Hill underlined the idea that apprenticeships are not just a training ground but a transformative journey that moulds aspiring chefs into well-rounded culinary professionals.

One of the major challenges faced by the hospitality industry is staffing shortages, leading to operational cutbacks, and even forced closures.

The industry's response to this challenge, as Hill suggests “is to attract and nurture young talent through apprenticeships, offering real-world experiences in professional kitchens”.

There are currently four apprentices at The Chester Grosvenor and each will have the unique opportunity to work alongside seasoned hospitality professionals across various restaurants and kitchens.

From bakery to patisserie, high-volume La Brasserie restaurant to the refined dining Arkle restaurant, apprentices gain exposure to diverse facets of the culinary industry under one roof.

The apprenticeship programme at The Chester Grosvenor is designed to provide a comprehensive platform for culinary enthusiasts to kickstart their careers.

Hill said: "The opportunity to learn from experienced chefs in real working environment is invaluable.

"As a chef just starting out I was like a sponge, just looking for opportunity to learn from other chefs and absorb their knowledge.

"The apprentice chef programme at The Chester Grosvenor is structured to nurture a well-rounded skill set, preparing the young chefs for the dynamic and competitive culinary landscape."

Beyond hands-on kitchen experience, apprentices receive classroom instruction covering theoretical aspects such as food safety, kitchen management, and financial skills.

The hotel recognises the importance of rounded experience that goes beyond cooking techniques, instilling in apprentices a deep understanding of the complex nature of the culinary arts.

Jennifer Proctor, Learning and Development Manager at The Chester Grosvenor, said: “We love mentoring, nurturing and growing talent at The Chester Grosvenor. Apprenticeships are not just a job; they are a great opportunity to lay the foundations for a successful career.

"We aim to work with our apprentices once they have successfully completed their apprenticeship, so that we can develop their talent as they work through the ranks across the hotel."

She added: "We are passionate about investing in our people and know the future of hotel’s success rests in the hands of the team, so it is of utmost importance that we support our learners by providing an environment that is vibrant and rewarding, so they may flourish and grow with Grosvenor”.