At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook dishes while learning essential kitchen skills in a vibrant team.
- Company: Join Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer with a rich history and family values.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and enjoy career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a supportive team atmosphere await you!
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career in a dynamic environment with a chance to grow.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for cooking and teamwork.
Train as a Commis Chef at The Old Mill, gaining hands-on kitchen experience while completing your Level 2 apprenticeship with HIT Training. You’ll learn core cooking skills, work in a fast-paced team, and build a strong foundation for progression across Shepherd Neame, supported by Sheps Spirit and Pride and Passion.
Based in the medieval market town of Faversham in Kent, Shepherd Neame is an independent family business that has the distinction of being Britain’s oldest brewer. The company operates a fully integrated business model, encompassing brewing, hospitality, and retail. It produces a diverse range of award-winning ales, lagers, and specialty beers, alongside licensed international lagers. In addition to brewing, Shepherd Neame owns and operates an extensive estate of around 280–300 pubs, hotels, and inns, located primarily across London and the South East of England.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare and cook dishes to company standards, ensuring quality and consistency
- Work collaboratively with the kitchen team to maintain smooth service during busy periods
- Uphold hygiene, safety, and compliance standards at all times
- Assist with stock control, ordering, and kitchen organisation
- Support and mentor junior team members, helping them develop their skills
Training Outcome
On successful completion, apprentices can progress into a full-time Commis Chef role, with opportunities to advance to Chef de Partie and further kitchen positions across Shepherd Neame’s pubs and hotels.
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Presentation skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Creative
- Initiative
- Patience
- Physical fitness
Course Information
Course: Commis chef (level 2)
Level: 2
Route: Catering and hospitality
Apprenticeship Level: Intermediate
Working Arrangements
Working Week: Varied shifts including daytime, evening, and weekend work. Exact shifts TBC.
Expected Duration: 1 Year
Training Provider: THE OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER LTD
Apprentice Commis Chef in Ashford employer: SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED
Shepherd Neame offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring chefs to kick-start their culinary careers in a supportive and passionate environment. Located in the historic town of Faversham, employees benefit from hands-on experience in a busy riverside pub while working towards a Level 2 qualification. With a commitment to employee growth and a clear pathway to permanent roles and advancement within the company, Shepherd Neame stands out as a rewarding employer in the hospitality sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Commis Chef in Ashford
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED
Don't be shy about reaching out to SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Commis Chef in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at SHEPHERD NEAME LIMITED
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
