The scheme is designed to help licensees attract and retain the ‘best talent’ in the hospitality sector. Star Pubs & Bars are funding the employer contribution for the first 100 places that sign up to the scheme.

The 100 apprenticeships are part of the Hospitality Apprenticeship Week that will run until Friday (9 August). It aims to bring the hospitality community together to showcase the positive differences apprentices can make to individuals, to their employers and to the wider economy.

Star Pubs & Bars see the programme as an investment in apprentice chefs to make them feel ‘valued and motivated’ to remain in the hospitality sector long-term.

Stephen Rooney, head of business support at Star Pubs & Bars, said: “The hospitality sector offers a fantastic range of opportunities. Anyone can progress from the bar to the boardroom, and many chefs and front of house staff in our pubs go on to run their own businesses.

“Apprenticeships provide the structure for young people to get off to a good start, and our scheme will hopefully help encourage more to follow a career path in our sector. Apprentices also bring energy and enthusiasm, along with a fresh perspective, to the teams they work with, so taking on an apprentice is a win-win for all.”

Two of the first licensees to take up the opportunity have already benefited from the scheme – The White Horse Hotel in Whitby and The Royal Oak in Great Ayton.