PLATE, which stands for Performance, Learning And Technical Excellence, launched at an event at Westminster Kingsway College, with students invited to apply to be part of the first cohort that starts in October.

Designed to unlock talent and ambition as well as support the transition from education into industry, PLATE enhances the student experience with broader skills training and exposure to the wide range of opportunities that hospitality, and particularly contract catering, has to offer.

Alex Rowe, head of food at Vacherin, commented: “We’re incredibly excited to have launched PLATE to students at Westminster Kingsway College and to see our vision to inspire future generations of chefs come to life.

“We’re proud to lead the way in revolutionising industry/college relationships and taking the traditional concept of the work placement to the next level, with a programme that supports and empowers students throughout their learning and beyond.

“Our chefs can’t wait to support the first cohort and give them enrichment experiences that will unlock their talent and passion for hospitality, build their confidence and help launch their careers. Our ambition is to grow the programme with larger cohorts year on year, and to roll it out further across our sister brands within the CH&CO family.”

Six culinary students per PLATE cohort will be supported Vacherin throughout years two and three at Westminster Kingsway College, extending into their career pathways as follows:

• Financial support to cover the cost of learning (from uniforms to equipment)
• Skills training, learning and development opportunities, as well as pastoral care
• Mentoring from Vacherin’s experienced chefs
• External stages that showcase the hospitality industry
• Supplier visits and industry events that provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the industry
• Additional paid work placement opportunities (outside of the mandated college work placement requirements)
• Guaranteed role within Vacherin on completion, with access to the many benefits and learning and development opportunities this includes.

Vacherin has also committed to giving back to the college with masterclasses and skills training for all culinary students, and to working with specialist industry partners to enhance student experiences.

Miranda Quantrill, curriculum manager of hospitality and culinary arts at Westminster Kingsway College, added: “PLATE is an extremely exciting opportunity for our young chefs. Having clear pathways from education to industry is crucial in helping students reach their full potential within the hospitality sector.

“The passion of Sabrina and the Vacherin team to focus on wider skills training and mentorship will no doubt encourage others to follow suit, and I look forward to seeing how our partnership can help develop and inspire within the education sector.”