Apprentices celebrated at hospitality showcase
The showcase in central London brought together apprentices from leading hospitality companies, MPs and ministers to explore the industry’s future and showcase the career paths available through apprenticeships.
It took place on Wednesday 8 February.
This year’s host was MP for vale of Glamorgan and chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group Alun Caims. He opened the event by remarking: “Apprenticeships play a crucial role in the hospitality industry. They help to support the growth and sustainability of the sector”.
He continued, “It is a pleasure to be hosting the Hospitality Apprenticeship Showcase at such a prestigious venue as the House of Commons. This showcase is a testament to the talent and hard work of aspiring hospitality apprentices, and it is a privilege to be part of celebrating their achievements.”
Five apprentices were awarded for outstanding achievements in their careers. Tom Foster from Stonegate Group, Fiat Worthington from Mitchells and Butlers, Emma Duke from Umbrella Training, Anthony David from Marston’s and Kerry Rafferty from Greene King were all recognised for their work.
The showcase welcomed apprentices from companies including Beds & Bars, Brewhouse & Kitchen, Mitchells and Butlers, Stonegate Group, Shepherd Neame and UKHospitality (UKH).
Future leaders
In the event’s first panel discussion, HIT Training managing director Jill Whittaker said: "The future of hospitality lies in the hands of our apprentices, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the tools and support they need to succeed.”
She said she was “honoured” to have the chance to speak at the event and host the first ever panel discussion, and she looked forward to continuing to work with the next generation of hospitality leaders.
The panel featured prominent figures from the sector. These included Stonegate HR director Tim Painter and Institute of Hospitality’s youth council chair Katariina Reissaar. It delved into the hospitality industry, dispelling common myths and exploring the sector’s growth potential and career advancement opportunities.
Joining the workforce
Apprentices that attended put on a show at their booths featuring ice-cream machines, freshly brewed beers and cocktails.
UKH strategic affairs director Tony Sophoclides said the trade body was “thrilled” to see a rise in apprenticeship numbers as the sector recovered from Covid’s devastating effects.
"History has proven that hospitality can drive economic recovery, and we're excited to see the next generation of leaders being developed through these crucial apprenticeships,” he added.
