Welsh employers give thumbs up to hospitality apprenticeship programme

10th September 2010, 8:01am

Employers in Wales have voiced their support for a unique programme that allows hospitality businesses to access apprenticeships funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.

Over 50 businesses, including Hilton and Marriott, have successfully taken part in the Pathways to Apprenticeships (PTA) programme - developed by People 1st, the sector skills council for hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism.

The PTA programme was designed to help hospitality businesses beat the recession, while developing highly skilled young people to build the future of the industry. Learners, typically aged 16-19, spend a year at college studying for the nationally-recognised VRQ in Professional Cookery or Food and Drink Service and undertake 200 hours of work experience with a local employer.

Employers provide work experience and training without a full-time permanent commitment, but can take the trainee on as a full apprentice at the end of the year, with funding from the Welsh Assembly Government.

The programme has been a resounding success, with some colleges reporting that 100% of learners have secured full-time employment. The Welsh Assembly Government has subsequently announced increased funding for the initiative from September 2010, so more businesses are set to benefit from fresh talent.

Tino Pardon, executive chef at the Marriott Hotel in Cardiff, provided work experience for PTA learners and was delighted with their achievements.

He said: "The PTA has been a tremendous success for both me as an employer and for the students as well. It involves a true commitment by the employer in training future chefs. The students are not just a free pair of hands – we do a proper induction with the students and resources and time go into supporting them as they start working with us. I have also held master classes with all the students.

"As an employer there is a lot to gain. The learners have developed during the course into valuable, enthusiastic, skilled and flexible team members. Many times, the students have swapped their days or chosen to work weekends for extra experience. They really are committed and hard working. I am delighted that the Welsh Assembly is going to continue funding the programme."

Rebekah Smith, head pastry chef at the Cardiff Hilton, said: "The PTA programme is fantastic – I wish it had been available when I was in college. On this programme the student gets to become a real part of the team. The student who came to work with us from Barry College has really impressed us. His skills have developed hugely and he has become like an extra team member who comes in for extra work when needed. I have been so impressed with the level of skills and confidence he has shown – it proves that training like this works."

People 1st's head of Wales, Bryan Roderick, added: "Feedback from employers and learners alike has been very positive, and we are delighted to have obtained funding to increase the number of learners for the next year."

The PTA programme is currently offered in seven colleges across Wales.

Those who are interested in getting involved with the Pathways To Apprenticeships programme should contact Bryan Roderick on 07920 581370 or email bryan.roderick@people1st.co.uk

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