Le Bistrot Pierre gives apprentices a start

The partnership with Charnwood College will see more than 20 apprentices fostered over a nine-month course, after which they will receive an NVQ qualification. The apprentices range in age from 19 to 37, and will follow diplomas in areas including hospitality and food and beverage, and certificates in team leading, management and professional cooking.

Le Bistrot Pierre co-founder John Whitehead said: “The apprenticeship scheme is a great way for us to better our customer service as more staff are on hand. It also gives us an opportunity to train a motivated workforce in all aspects of catering and hospitality. We offer a great foundation at Le Bistrot Pierre for the apprentices to learn on the job as we give them a clear account of what the industry has to offer.”

Charnwood’s Simon Lowder added: “The courses allow on the job training so apprentices learn as they earn. It’s a nationally recognized and industry relevant qualification and ensures that people passionate about the industry receive the training and learn the skill set they need to succeed in their career.”

The move by Le Bistrot Pierre continues the industry’s focus on apprenticeships, which were recently the subject of a trade-wide summit.