At a Glance
- Tasks: Kick-start your culinary career with hands-on learning and real-world kitchen experience.
- Company: Join the award-winning Inn Collection Group, known for exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid breaks, 50% off food, and a £1 stay at our Inns during winter.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills through masterclasses and earn a nationally recognised apprenticeship.
- Qualifications: A passion for food, a willingness to learn, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
What makes the perfect pub? It’s great ales, delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and the warm welcome from a team that’s at the heart of everything we do. The Inn Collection Group is a multi-award-winning pubs with rooms company, proudly located in some of the most outstanding destinations across the North of England and Wales. At ICG, we deliver exceptional hospitality by living and breathing our core values of respect, customer focused, warmth, and honesty, all with the goal of Making People Happy.
How we say thank you!
- Celebrate your birthday with an extra paid holiday.
- Build your future with support from our Lead-Inn development program.
- Take the time you need to rest and recharge; Paid Breaks are on us.
- Enjoy 50% off food at any of our Inns.
- Relax with a stay at any of our Inns during January, February, and March for just £1.
- Take advantage of the chance to explore our beautiful locations, with 1/3 off room bookings all year round.
- Experience a spontaneous trip away with £50 on same day bookings.
- Your loved ones can enjoy 15% off bed and breakfast too!
- 24/7 confidential support is always there when you need it with our Employee Assistance Programme.
- Tronc (that’s tips to me and you).
- Contribute to a company that gives back through our Give-inn back scheme.
- Join an award-winning team recognised as the Best Pub Employer at the Publican Awards.
The Ambleside Inn is set against a backdrop of breath-taking fell views and scenic walking routes, making it the perfect base to explore the beauty of the Lake District. Surrounded by nature's tranquillity and with easy access to some of the area's most picturesque trails, it’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the stunning landscape.
You’ll Fit Right Inn
Are you ready to kick-start your culinary career with hands-on learning and real-world experience? As a Chef Academy Apprentice, you’ll dive into a range of practical masterclasses. From butchery and bread-making to fish preparation, designed to build your skills and confidence in the kitchen. Alongside working in a professional kitchen environment, you’ll gain valuable experience and develop the techniques that will set you apart. This is more than just an apprenticeship, it’s a journey full of learning, growth, and delicious challenges.
Now in its fourth year, The Inn Collection Group’s Chef Academy is proud to offer a unique opportunity for aspiring chefs to gain real-world kitchen experience, learn from industry leaders, and build the skills needed for a successful future in hospitality. With the success of our previous cohorts, this year’s programme is set to be our most impactful yet practical, supportive, and built around your development.
Why join our Chef Academy?
- Gain a nationally recognised Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship.
- Receive £9,000 worth of fully funded training invested in your future.
- Learn from industry experts at The Benson-Smith Academy.
- Take part in 9 chef-led masterclasses to sharpen your skills.
- Join a community of apprentices across the business, sharing your journey and growing together.
- Work alongside professional chefs every day, gaining real kitchen experience while you earn.
- Regular check-ins and personalised coaching to support your development.
About you
- You have a real love for food and cooking that drives you every day.
- You have a “yes chef” attitude, willing to learn, take feedback, and get stuck in.
- You are able to travel to masterclasses, which are core to the programme.
- You manage your time, balancing learning with the fast-paced kitchen life.
- You are proactive in steering your own learning and growth on-site.
- Committed to completing the full 12-month programme and making the most of every opportunity.
What to expect along the way
Want to discover what our Chef Academy has in store for you? Hear it straight from our apprentices!
Visit or follow this link: https://careers.inncollectiongroup.com/chef-academy or follow us on socials https://www.tiktok.com/@icgcareers.
*Age-related pay rates apply for Under 21s.*
Trainee Chef employer: The Ambleside Inn
The Inn Collection Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. With unique benefits such as paid breaks, generous discounts, and a supportive Lead-Inn development programme, you will thrive in a team that values respect, warmth, and honesty. Located in the stunning Lake District, this role not only provides hands-on culinary training but also allows you to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery while building a rewarding career in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on The Inn Collection Group. Understand their values and what makes them tick. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission to make people happy.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you're applying for a Trainee Chef position, it’s a good idea to brush up on your culinary techniques. Try out some new recipes or even take a cooking class. This will not only boost your confidence but also give you something to talk about during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices from the Chef Academy. They can provide insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about what to expect and how to stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our official channels. It shows you're serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of all the amazing talent out there. So, don’t hesitate—get your application in today!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through. Share any experiences or moments that sparked your interest in the culinary world. We want to see that 'yes chef' attitude right from the start!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect how you fit into our values of respect, warmth, and customer focus. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with what we do at The Inn Collection Group.
Be Honest and Authentic:We value honesty, so be yourself in your application. Don’t be afraid to share your journey and what you hope to achieve through our Chef Academy. Authenticity goes a long way in making a great first impression!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you one step closer to joining our award-winning team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Ambleside Inn
✨Know Your Ingredients
Before the interview, brush up on your culinary knowledge. Familiarise yourself with different cooking techniques and ingredients that are commonly used in pub cuisine. This will show your passion for food and help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Show Your 'Yes Chef' Attitude
Emphasise your willingness to learn and take feedback. The Inn Collection Group values a proactive approach, so be ready to share examples of how you've embraced challenges in the kitchen or adapted to feedback in previous experiences.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a kitchen environment. Think about scenarios where you had to manage time effectively or work under pressure. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific cooking tasks or challenges that may arise.
✨Connect with Their Values
The Inn Collection Group prides itself on respect, warmth, and customer focus. During the interview, align your answers with these core values. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to exceptional hospitality and making people happy, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
