Aspiring chef lands dream job with Lake District hotel group
A teenager who is aspiring to be one of the top chefs in the Lake District has landed her first permanent job.
Hannah Jones, aged 20, from Levens has secured a full-time role as a demi chef de partie at The Wild Boar near Windermere.
Hannah’s training with the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy allowed her to earn a wage whilst working as an apprentice chef and studying for her hospitality and catering NVQs at Kendal College.
She had not initially planned to start an apprenticeship, but after taking a part-time role working in a local pub, she decided to pursue a career in the hospitality and catering industry with the ambition to become a top chef.
Hannah said: “I found out about the culinary academy through school whilst doing my A-levels. I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship because it’s presented me with plenty of opportunities to develop my skills as a chef alongside other apprentices, as well as getting experience in the industry at the same time.
“Everyone has been really supportive of my development and I look forward to the year ahead when I start my Level 3 qualifications.”
The English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy provides youngsters with a one-year apprenticeship, with the attainment of Level 2 Commis Chef and Level 3 Chef de Partie qualifications in partnership with Kendal College. The fully accredited courses allow the students to develop their skills whilst earning an income.
Daniel Winstanley, group training and development chef at English Lakes Hotels Resorts and Venues said: “Hannah got in touch with us in her final year of her A-levels. When she said she wished to complete her exams before starting the course, I knew straight away the type of hard-working character she has subsequently proved to be.
“The feedback we are getting from The Wild Boar is that Hannah is an absolute star and one of the best young chefs they have recruited. She’s been completely committed to the course and has excelled in all areas. I’m sure she will achieve her career goals as she continues to develop her personal skills and provide support as a valued member of the team.”
Cleaning company aims to expand
A passion for business has helped a south Cumbrian entrepreneur create a thriving cleaning company.
Now Maggie Ptasinska, company director of Housekeeping Club, wants to expand the business, move to new, larger premises and increase the size of its vehicle fleet.
Maggie said: “Ultimately, I would like Housekeeping Club to be seen as the commercial cleaning company that people think of in the North West when they need a cleaning service.”
The Kendal-based company specialises in cleaning the interiors of commercial properties and offers services in south Cumbria and in north Lancashire.
“We are seeking larger premises to provide more storage, meeting rooms and somewhere for our staff to socialise. We would also like to acquire more vehicles for our staff to use.
“We will be increasing the number of staff as the summer season approaches and, as we take on more contracts, we will be looking to recruit even further,” she said.
Apprentices celebrated for contribution to local authority services in Cumbria
A special celebration event recognised the contribution apprentices make to local authority services across Cumbria.
Apprentices from Cumberland Council, Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service were welcomed to the event at Penrith Rugby Club on Friday 9th February as part of National Apprenticeship Week.
Senior leaders from each organisation kicked off the event by expressing their gratitude and thanks to the apprentices for their work, dedication and the positive impact they make on communities.
This was followed by a presentation from Cumbria Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (CAAN), a group of previous and current apprentices who are passionate about promoting apprenticeships as a career path.
The event culminated with uplifting stories and case studies from apprentices about their individual career journeys, including Francis Armstrong who began her local government career as a support worker and is now undertaking a BA Social Work Apprenticeship with Cumberland Council.
Francis said: “The benefits of apprenticeships are massive, personally and professionally. Through the support and encouragement of colleagues, you develop new skills and knowledge every day.”
Paul Robinson, director of enabler services at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “It was an honour to attend the celebration event for apprentices on Friday and be able to personally thank them for all they do for local authority services in Cumbria.
“Apprentices often bring new, innovative ways of looking at things, resulting in huge benefits for our teams. I look forward to continuing to see the positive impact they make on council services and communities, as well as seeing their own personal development.
“Our fantastic apprenticeship team are committed to making sure the service is successful across all three authorities, so a massive thank you to them too.”
Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: “An apprenticeship is a brilliant way to kickstart your career, or change career paths, as it is an opportunity to learn new skills and gain invaluable experience.
“The future looks bright as these apprentices will be the backbone of our organisations in years to come, and it was a pleasure to celebrate with them at Friday’s event and hear their personal stories and career journeys.”
Brian Steadman, deputy chief fire officer, said: “Apprentices have been a part of CFRS for many years now, working in a variety of different roles. They’re an invaluable part of our organisation, with several of our staff starting as apprentices and working their way up to senior roles. “A huge thank you to all our apprentices and the apprenticeship team for their hard work and commitment.”
