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.
Set in an idyllic lakeside location, The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside boasts one of the most stunning settings in the Lake District. Its beer garden, right on the shores of Lake Windermere, offers breath-taking views of the water and surrounding landscape, providing the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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 Wateredge 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. Set in the stunning lakeside location of The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside, this role not only provides hands-on culinary training but also allows you to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District 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 way, you can show them that you're not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their mission of Making People Happy.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you're applying for a Trainee Chef position, it’s essential to demonstrate your passion for food. Try out new recipes or techniques and be ready to talk about your culinary experiences during the interview. Show them that you’re eager to learn and grow in the kitchen!
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees! If you can, reach out to people who work at The Inn Collection Group. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. This could give you valuable insights and help you stand out as a candidate who’s already engaged with the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves. By applying directly on our site, you’ll be in the best position to showcase your enthusiasm for joining our award-winning team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
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 the values of The Inn Collection Group. Highlight how you embody respect, warmth, and a customer-focused mindset. This will show us that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you truly want to be part of our team.
Be Honest and Authentic:We appreciate honesty in applications. Don’t be afraid to share your strengths and areas where you want to grow. This is a journey of learning, and we’re here to support you every step of the way!
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 on the path to joining our award-winning team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Wateredge Inn
✨Know Your Ingredients
Before the interview, brush up on your culinary knowledge. Familiarise yourself with different cooking techniques, ingredients, and dishes that are popular in pub cuisine. This will not only show your passion for food but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Show Your 'Yes Chef' Attitude
During the interview, embody the 'yes chef' mentality. Be open to feedback and express your eagerness to learn. Share examples of how you've taken on challenges in the kitchen or adapted to new situations, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work in a team, as hospitality is all about collaboration. Share experiences where you’ve successfully worked alongside others in a kitchen environment, showcasing your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive atmosphere.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the Chef Academy's masterclasses or the types of dishes you might be working on. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can grow within the company.
