Each of the ABode Hotels across the UK participating in the scheme have now welcomed their first ever apprentices who will be employed at the hotel for the next 2 years. Uniquely, the programme offers the opportunity to experience various areas of Food & Beverage service & preparation, whilst receiving coaching and support by senior members of the ABode team. Each apprentice will be given invaluable access to the catering industry, gaining experience, development and encouragement from some of the best in the business - including Michael Caines himself. All apprentices will also complete an NVQ (level 2 and 3) in either Food Preparation or Food Service, delivered by Trafford College. The ABode Apprentice Programme officially launched on Monday 25th August with a dinner for both apprentices and parents at the flagship ABode Exeter hotel. Here, apprentices and their families were offered the opportunity to ask any questions regarding the apprenticeship over the launch dinner. The following day an official induction day was held with key members of the ABode Hotel group including cooking demonstrations with Chef Michael Caines where the new apprentices were given the opportunity to see the prior evenings menu from preparation to plate. These included dishes such as Roast Brixham scallops, Boudin of chicken mousse, Slow braised Cornish brill and Roast loin of Dartmoor lamb, followed by an Exotic fruit salad, and a wonderful Duo of chocolate. A wine tasting and cocktail demonstration with Steve Edwards, Head of Group Service followed. The Apprentice Programme is the first in a series of schemes which compliment current graduate schemes in place. Supported by the sponsors 3663, Nisbets and Grand Marnier, each apprentice received a 'starter set' which included knives, cocktail shakers, waiters friend, personalised chef whites, food service uniform and a training folder. During the 2 years employment at the hotel, each of the apprentices will also be invited to attend development days with suppliers who currently work with the hotel. The first will include a visit to the Chapel Down Winery in Kent and Godmersham Game Suppliers also in based Kent. To register interest in the ABode Apprentice Programme, please write to Michael Caines Apprenticeship Scheme, Ros Young, Group HR Manager, ABodeManchester, 107 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2DB, or email [email protected]