Chartwells Commits to Apprenticeship Drive

Chartwells, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, has committed to delivering 200 apprenticeships over the coming year in a move that clearly demonstrates its appetite to grow and develop its team, as well as attract new talent.

The announcement comes during Hospitality Apprenticeship Week, which runs between 18-22 October, and aligns with Compass’ overarching strategy to drive career progression across its business through a dedicated and structured apprenticeships programme.

This focus has seen the business relaunch its Apprenticeships roadmap, with tailored programmes across England, Scotland and Wales.  The programmes provide a clear progression roadmap, from Level 2 all the way to Level 7, across a number of competencies, including: Culinary; Front of House Hospitality; Front of House Retail; HR and Learning and Development; Cleaning and Facilities Management; Accountancy; Business; Supply Chain; and Digital and Technology.

Charlie Brown, Managing Director, Chartwells, said: “There is a misconception that apprenticeships are solely for young people looking for entry level roles – this is absolutely not the case. We offer a range of different apprenticeship levels throughout the business, across a diverse range of functions, that are suitable for those of all ages, experience and backgrounds.

“This commitment demonstrates our intent in this area, but it is very much the start of an ambitious period for the company as we look to evolve and develop our team and services to meet the changing demands of our clients, customers and the market.”

A number of successful candidates have already been through Chartwells’ Apprenticeship scheme, including Gemma Burnett, who has recently completed the level 3 Team Leader qualification and is now embarking on her level 5 Operational Manager qualification. She said: “The initiative really has been transformative. Truth be told, when I first heard about apprenticeships I too had misconceptions about whether they were solely for entry level learners, but that could not be further from the truth. I would wholeheartedly urge more people to explore the opportunities that exist within apprenticeships.”

Compass Group UK & Ireland is dedicated to training and developing its employees through apprenticeships. Its focus on inclusion saw it recently receive the accolade of winning BAME Apprenticeship Employer of the Year.

Jonathan Foot, Head of Apprenticeships and Early Careers, Compass UK & Ireland said: “Given the current recruitment climate within the hospitality industry, it’s incredibly important that we collectively spread awareness about the opportunities that exist for career progression within our fantastic industry. Apprenticeships provide a fantastic platform for doing this in a structured way, giving ambitious, passionate, hard-working people the tools needed to climb the career ladder and realise the true potential of their skills.”