Apprentice chefs address recruitment challenge

A trio of apprentice chefs have begun work in our Catering team, after an innovative solution was sought to address recruitment challenges in the industry.

A shortage of chefs is a post-pandemic issue across the UK. Campus Commerce have therefore taken advantage of the University's apprenticeship scheme run by People Development as an alternative way to fill roles this academic year.

The 18-month apprenticeships allow the trainee chefs – two Commis Chefs and one Chef de Partie – to learn on the job, building skills and experience in our unique university environment. Two also spend one day a week off campus learning the theory to support their practical training.

Once the apprenticeships are complete, they can apply for a permanent position at the University and new trainees brought on board.

Why not train our own?

Karlene Gaskell, Executive Chef in the Catering team, said: “A shortage of skilled chefs is going to be a long-term issue in the industry, but this is going to be a long-term fix for us.

“We had recruitment adverts out for a year almost constantly and, although we found a few gems, the challenge of finding chefs remained. So we thought, why not train our own?

“The guys we’ve got at the moment are great. Because we have a diverse range of services and events at the University, it’s the ideal environment for trainees to learn a variety of skills.”

Personal development opportunity for existing colleagues

While two of the apprentice chefs are new starters in their teens, Christos Mavrozoumis (pictured) has started his apprenticeship in his 40s – demonstrating that they can work for people of all ages.

Christos was worked in our Catering team since 2016, starting as a Kitchen Assistant, before progressing to Cook, Commis Chef and now Chef de Partie.

Christos said: “For me, it was a personal development opportunity. I am always keen to learn new skills, cooking techniques and explore new recipes.

“The apprenticeship will offer me the chance to develop my professional goals towards becoming an established chef and contribute to the success of the catering team of the University.

“From an apprentice point of view, it was very easy to apply! I received support from both my line manager and the Human Resources team during the application stage.”

Find out more about apprenticeships

The University offers opportunities for staff to develop their careers and gain a nationally recognised, vocational qualification by undertaking an apprenticeship, funded through the Apprenticeship Levy.

To find out if an apprenticeship could be an option for you or your team, visit the People and Development webpage.

There are also two upcoming information events to sign up to on UoR Learn:

• Introduction to the Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship – Monday 30 October, 1-2pm, Online (Teams).
  For staff who have project management responsibilities as part of their role and are looking to upskill through formal project management training and qualifications.
• Hire an Apprentice – Tuesday 28 November, 11am-12pm, Online (Teams).
  For managers who would like to know more about hiring an apprentice, particularly if having difficulty recruiting the right candidates for roles.