Positive response from hospitality apprentices
15th August 2011
Positive response from hospitality apprentices
A new academy for hospitality apprentices in Coventry is predicting a waiting list for its second intake of students after being inundated with applicants.
The De Vere Academy of Hospitality, which is now opening on Monday, September 5, had 94% of applicants expressing an interest to join the first 90-strong intake at the Ricoh Arena.
De Vere’s tenth UK-wide academy will run four apprenticeship programmes a year for customer service and professional cookery.
Lucy Randall, talent and recruitment co-ordinator at the De Vere Academy of Hospitality, said she envisaged another successful open day this month, meaning that the De Vere Academy will have plenty of candidates to choose from.
“I don’t think we’ll have any problems filling the first 90 places,” she said. “In fact, I expect to have a waiting list. The response has been fantastic – my telephone has been red hot with enquiries.’
“We have had a great deal of help from Jobcentre Plus, Coventry Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership, Coventry City Council and the National Apprenticeship Service as well as the Ricoh Arena.
“Part of the programme involves work placements and we have received positive feedback from many local hotels, restaurants and retail outlets in the Midlands already keen to take part.
“Everyone has been really enthusiastic and it shows there is a need for this kind of hands-on experience to prepare young people for working in the hospitality industry.”
Daniel Gidney, chief executive of the Ricoh Arena, said this project is offering young people a fantastic opportunity to help improve their job prospects.
He said: “This is a great chance for the next generation of hospitality stars to get real work-life experience and learn a great deal about their industry.
“The response to the academy in Coventry underlines the need for this kind of training and will really boost the leisure industry at an important time in Coventry and Warwickshire as we count down to the Olympics and the influx of visitors it will bring.”
Kellie Rixon, MD of the De Vere Academy of Hospitality, said: “I am delighted with the response we’ve received so far from both potential apprentices and local businesses. Our young people have the eagerness and passion to learn and secure employment. The De Vere Academy, our industry and business partners help identify and nurture that passion – and kick-start the beginning of what we hope will be long and successful careers for our people.”
For further information or to apply, log on to www.devereacademy.co.uk or contact Lucy on 07557 161915.
