NCFE qualification supports learner to gain apprenticeship at Manchester’s luxury Midland Hotel

Luke Bennett, a learner at Newall Green High School, has secured an apprenticeship at the luxury Midland Hotel in Manchester after completing a technical qualification in food and cookery from NCFE.

The Level 2 V Cert qualification has supported Luke to gain skills and knowledge in food hygiene, preparation, diet and the food industry. It provides learners with experience of using different cooking skills and methods to enable them to use these for a variety of progression routes including further education, apprenticeships or into the workplace.

The edge over competitors

With this knowledge in hand, Luke recently completed two trials for an apprenticeship place at the Midland Hotel, Manchester. Although he faced fierce competition, Luke’s skills in the kitchen steered him to success and he has now started his Sous Chef apprenticeship training.

To raise funds for his own knife set and other expenses, which are requirements for the apprenticeship, Luke held a cake sale in his school – which went down a treat with his classmates and teachers.

Sarah Healey, Curriculum Leader at Newall Green High School commented: “Luke is an extremely hardworking student who has stepped up to the challenge of the trials at the Midland Hotel and we are so proud of him for reaching his goal and securing an apprenticeship. Luke, along with the other learners and staff at Newall Green High School have thoroughly enjoyed this NCFE qualification and its flexibility. We would like to thank NCFE for the overwhelming support throughout the delivery of this qualification.”

Luke commented: “I’ve really enjoyed my NCFE food and cookery V Cert. I’ve been able to learn so many new skills and gained a thorough understanding of all the areas of cooking to take me to the next level.”

Inspired by world-class chefs

Gettalife, a registered charity which enables young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to access high quality apprenticeships and training, along with mentoring them through that training, helped Luke to secure his apprenticeship.

Helen Oakley, trustee at Gettalife said: “Previous apprentices at the Midland Hotel have gained technical skills through their Level 2 Sous Chef apprenticeship, from observing, being coached and working in the kitchens, as well as self-confidence, discipline and employability skills. They also have the opportunity to be inspired by some world-class chefs; catering for brasserie, fine dining, afternoon tea and special events across the hotel.

“Our charity supports young people to access to these opportunities and helps build their confidence to achieve them. The ongoing mentorship offered by Gettalife ensures they stick at the rigorous demands of a catering apprenticeship, even when the going gets tough.”

To find out more about our qualifications in food and cookery, please visit QualHub.co.uk.