Hospitality and catering apprentices from Exeter College are being recognised for their achievements, alongside the employers whose commitment is helping to develop the next generation of skilled professionals.
The annual Apprentice and Employer Awards brought together apprentices, employers and industry partners to celebrate the dedication, talent and hard work shown throughout their apprenticeship journeys. The event showcased the high standards being achieved across the region and highlighted the vital role employers play in nurturing future talent.
With recruitment challenges continuing across Devon’s hospitality sector, apprenticeships remain a proven way for businesses to attract, develop and retain skilled people while investing in the future of their workforce.
Hospitality businesses – now is the time to invest in your future workforce.
With the new apprenticeship courses starting in October, there has never been a better opportunity to grow your team. Small and medium-sized businesses could receive up to £3,000 in government incentive payments for hiring a new apprentice, and employers continue to pay no National Insurance contributions for apprentices under the age of 25.
Training continues to evolve alongside industry needs, with hospitality programmes designed to equip apprentices with practical, job-ready skills while giving employers the flexibility to shape training around their business.
Antony Woodhouse, Chairman of Hall & Woodhouse said: “I would like to thank Exeter College for their agile approach to apprenticeship design, working with Hall & Woodhouse to make training fit for purpose.”
The partnership demonstrates how apprenticeship programmes can be tailored to meet the specific needs of employers while developing the skills businesses need to thrive.
Rosanna Fothergill, Training and Recruitment Adviser at Exeter College, said: “Our Apprentice and Employer Awards were a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices and to thank the employers who have supported them every step of the way. Their commitment is helping to build a stronger and more resilient hospitality sector across the South West”.
“There has never been a more important time for hospitality businesses to consider taking on an apprentice, with new funding opportunities available and October starts approaching. Apprenticeships are a win-win for businesses, helping them develop skilled, motivated staff while creating rewarding careers for local people.”
Businesses across the South West continue to work with Exeter College to create apprenticeship programmes that develop practical skills, support business growth and respond to the changing needs of the hospitality industry.
Get in touch today to find out how an apprentice can help your business grow and secure the funding available.
Contact the Exeter College Apprenticeship Hub at exe-coll.ac.uk/apprenticeships.
Email: apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk
Telephone: 01392 400800
