TEENAGERS from south Cumbria have stepped onto the first rung of their career ladder in the hospitality sector, thanks to a hotel group’s unique training initiative.

English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues has recruited the cohort to train as commis chefs as part of its ‘Culinary Academy’, which was set up in 2017.

The two-year apprenticeship, delivered in partnership with multi-award winning local chef Steven Doherty and Kendal College, trains the youngsters to become commis chefs whilst under the employment of the hotel group.

The students, all aged 16-17, will be deployed to train and work at three of the group’s renowned venues across the Lake District and North Lancashire.

Former Ulverston High School pupils Niamh Kelly, Aidan Fisher, Ethan Cole, Alfie Danson, and Jamie Butterworth will all take up posts at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. Matthew Shaw from Barrow and Archie Brown from Endmoor will undertake their apprenticeships at Waterhead Hotel, while Jordan Michie from Heysham and Simon Craven from Silverdale join the culinary team at the Midland Hotel, Morecambe.

“I’m really excited to start my career and to be part of this group of apprentices,” said Niamh. “I’m sure it will be challenging but it will give us all the skills we need to make it. It’s great to be able to earn and learn at the same time and get first-hand experiences.”

Mr Doherty added: “It’s a great way to give young trainees the grounding they need within the industry.”

The Culinary Academy is fully accredited to deliver the apprenticeship approved by the Government. The initiative involves working under the watchful eye of the hotel group’s own head chefs at award-winning venues, with one day per week dedicated to offsite training with Mr Doherty.