At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Chef Academy to learn hands-on culinary skills in a professional kitchen.
- Company: The Inn Collection Group is an award-winning pub company in stunning locations across the North of England and Wales.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid breaks, 50% off food, and a £1 stay at our Inns during winter months.
- Why this job: Kick-start your culinary career with real-world experience and masterclasses from industry experts.
- Qualifications: A passion for food, a willingness to learn, and commitment to a 12-month programme.
- Other info: Gain a nationally recognised Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship and join a supportive community.
Job Description
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
•It’s not just for you—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 third 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 careers.inncollectiongroup.com/chef-academy or follow this link: https://careers.inncollectiongroup.com/chef-academy;
*Age-related pay rates apply for Under 21s.*
Chef Apprentice employer: The Inn Collection Group Careers
Contact Detail:
The Inn Collection Group Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Inn Collection Group's core values: respect, customer focus, warmth, and honesty. Demonstrating an understanding of these values during your interactions can set you apart as a candidate who truly aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current or former apprentices from the Chef Academy. They can provide valuable insights into the programme and share tips on how to excel, which can help you stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for food and cooking by participating in local culinary events or workshops. This hands-on experience not only enhances your skills but also demonstrates your commitment to the culinary arts.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive in your learning journey. Research the types of masterclasses offered in the Chef Academy and think about how you can apply those skills in a real kitchen environment. This shows initiative and a genuine desire to grow.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand what the Chef Apprentice role entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and skills required, as outlined in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills related to cooking and hospitality. Emphasise any previous kitchen experience, even if it's informal, and showcase your passion for food.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Chef Academy and why you want to join The Inn Collection Group. Mention specific aspects of the programme that excite you and how they align with your career goals.
Showcase Your Passion: Use your application to demonstrate your love for food and cooking. Share any personal experiences or stories that illustrate your commitment to pursuing a culinary career and your willingness to learn.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Inn Collection Group Careers
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Make sure to express your genuine love for food and cooking during the interview. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your enthusiasm and commitment to the culinary arts.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
Adopt a 'yes chef' attitude and be ready to discuss how you handle feedback and challenges in the kitchen. Employers appreciate candidates who are eager to learn and grow, so be prepared to share examples of how you've embraced learning opportunities in the past.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to kitchen scenarios or cooking techniques. Brush up on basic culinary skills and terminology, and be ready to discuss your approach to tasks like butchery or bread-making, as these are key components of the apprenticeship.
✨Highlight Your Time Management Skills
Since balancing learning with a fast-paced kitchen environment is crucial, be prepared to talk about how you manage your time effectively. Share strategies you've used in the past to juggle multiple responsibilities, especially in a culinary context.