The new chef development school is a nine-month programme designed for employees who want to pursue a career as a chef, particularly kitchen porters, general assistants and commis chefs, to give them the opportunity to learn the basics in cooking techniques and theory.

Mike Sunley, CEO of Lexington and Elior’s City B&I business, said: “The new school will support Lexington and Elior in retaining some incredibly talented individuals across the London business.

“Not only will it give our team the opportunity to progress into a chef role but it will work alongside Lexington’s existing apprenticeship programme and partnership with Galvin Restaurants to address the skills shortage in the kitchen.”

As part of the nine-month programme, participants will visit markets with the team and carry out practical work experience at a special event where they can get to put their skills to the test.