Rick Stein launches chef apprenticeship scheme

Celebrity chef-restaurateur Rick Stein has launched a Chef Apprenticeship programme to help kick-start the careers of tomorrow's culinary stars. 

Rick Stein's Chef Apprenticeship welcomes any budding chef over the age of 16, enrolling them on a work-based initiative, starting this September, with applicants requiring no prior industry experience. 

Based in one of the chef's Cornwall kitchens, apprentices will learn on the job from the group's senior chefs. They will take part in weekly sessions with expert tutors from Truro and Penwith College, developing the foundations required to become successful professional chefs.

The programme will focus on critical skills such as filleting fish, the art of classic sauces, professional-level vegetable preparation and more. Not only this, but Stein's most famous recipes – inspired by his global travels – will be mastered by the students, ensuring that quality and consistency is maintained in each dish, while their food knowledge is broadened by tastings with the group's head chefs. 

Apprentices will also have the chance to gain paid work experience at Stein's restaurants – including the flagship 1975 fine-dining venue The Seafood Restaurant, The Cornish Arms pub and the Rich Stein Café – earning at least £9.30 an hour (under 18s) or £9.60 (over 18s). They will learn how to work effectively alongside kitchen and front-of-house staff to deliver outstanding customer service. 

Programme participants will work a 40-hour week, including eight hours per week in college, starting this September. They will receive the same benefits as Stein's employees – including 50% off in all restaurants, 20% off in shops and online, discounted hotel stays and cookery courses; and flexible shifts, tax-free tips and 28-days' paid holiday. 

Upon successful completion of the scheme, students will be offered a permanent contract as a Rick Stein chef in one of the group's kitchens. They will receive a Level 2 in Professional Cookery qualification, with the programme continuing to invest in their development moving forward. 

For more information or to apply, visit rickstein.com/careers/chef-apprenticeship. 

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