The Alchemist launches apprentice chef scheme
Through a partnership with training and recruitment provider Smart, the operator will provide a high-quality Government-funded apprenticeship programme.
It will offer five commis chef positions through the scheme.
The programme will run for 12 to 18 months, and will be delivered through a combination of on-the-job training as well as expert one-to-one training.
Manchester launch
Three of the positions are based in Manchester because the brand is keen to give back to the city where it opened its first site in 2010, with positions also available in Leeds and Nottingham.
Simon Potts, managing director of the brand, said: “We are totally committed in our support of the city that has been pivotal in our journey as a brand.
“People are at our core, which is why we offer extensive training, genuine care and clear progression for everyone who works with us.
“We are always looking for new ways in which we can give back to our communities, and our new apprenticeship scheme will be a fantastic way to support the chefs of the future.
“It was a no-brainer to launch the scheme in Manchester, before rolling it out across our other sites.
“Although we are steadily making our mark across the UK, Manchester has always been our home, and anything we can do to give back to the community that supports us so greatly, we will of course do.”
Extremely proud
Executive chef Seamus O’Donnell explained: “Our kitchen philosophy here at the Alchemist is based on trust, honesty and reliability, and we are extremely proud to be introducing our apprenticeship scheme in Manchester, Leeds and Nottingham.
“We have chosen to work alongside Smart training and recruitment because it is apparent our values are aligned and, most importantly, are equally passionate in developing the people of the future.
“We look forward to welcoming our first apprentices into the Alchemist team.”
The news follows industry and government scrutiny of how to encourage young people to take up careers in the sector.
