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 of apprentices and professional chefs.
- 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 - 22000 £ 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.
- 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 Swan is tucked beneath the dramatic fells surrounding the picturesque village of Grasmere in the Lake District. Steeped in history, this charming inn offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a firm favourite among visitors to the area. With its stunning location and rich heritage, The Swan provides the perfect base to explore Grasmere’s natural beauty and the surrounding 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!
Trainee Chef employer: THE SWAN INN
The Inn Collection Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises respect, warmth, and customer focus. With a commitment to employee growth through the Chef Academy, you will receive hands-on training, mentorship from industry experts, and numerous benefits including paid breaks, discounts on food and accommodation, and a supportive community. Located in the stunning Lake District, working at The Swan not only provides a rewarding culinary career but also allows you to immerse yourself in one of the UK's most picturesque destinations.
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 essential to showcase your passion for food. Try out new recipes or techniques and be ready to discuss your culinary experiences during the interview. Show us that you’ve got that 'yes chef' attitude!
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former apprentices from the Chef Academy on social media. They can provide insider tips and maybe even give you a heads-up about what to expect. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and eager to learn from others.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the Chef Academy and what we’re looking for. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to kick-start your culinary career with us!
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 enthusiasm!
Be Yourself:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We value warmth and honesty, so share a bit about who you are and what makes you unique. It helps us get to know you better!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect how you fit with our values and the role. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with what we’re looking for in a Trainee Chef.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SWAN INN
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your genuine love for cooking and food during the interview. Share any personal experiences or dishes that inspire you, as this will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the culinary arts.
✨Embrace the 'Yes Chef' Attitude
Highlight your willingness to learn and take feedback. Be ready to discuss how you've handled constructive criticism in the past and how it has helped you grow. This attitude aligns perfectly with the values of The Inn Collection Group.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about kitchen scenarios or techniques. Brush up on basic cooking methods and be prepared to discuss how you would approach specific tasks, like butchery or bread-making, to show your readiness for the hands-on learning aspect of the role.
✨Demonstrate Time Management Skills
Talk about how you balance learning and working in a fast-paced environment. Share examples of how you've successfully managed your time in previous roles or during your studies, as this is crucial for thriving in a busy kitchen.
