With National Apprenticeship Week underway, Carringtons Catering is highlighting the importance of schemes for young workers within the hospitality industry.

In line with the tenth annual event and the government’s pledge to train three million apprentices by 2020, the North West based catering firm is hoping to inspire the ‘next generation’ by giving them the opportunity to begin a career in the hospitality sector.

To actively contribute to helping to fulfil the vision, the independently run company, which employs 60 members of staff, is currently on the search for local young talent having unveiled two new apprenticeships.

Director of Carringtons Catering Helen Wynn said: “New changes that have been made to the quantity and quality of England’s apprenticeship programmes mean that more hospitality businesses than ever before now have the funds and resources needed to help address the skills shortage within the industry.

“Due to a high rate of staff turnover within the sector, it is estimated that 1.3 million employees will have to be recruited by 2024, of whom 975,000 will be replacements of staff that have left. With that in mind, this is why we as an industry need to collectively work together to inspire young newcomers and nurture their drive and talent.

“In addition to giving young workers the chance to kick-start their careers, statistics have indicated that nearly all apprentices feel that they acquire or improve skills as a direct result of active first-hand experience, allowing them to grow and progress in their roles often quicker than academic routes.”

Having run an apprenticeship scheme for the past five years, Carringtons Catering is committed to sourcing and developing local talent.

From kitchen staff to its operational team, the firm’s successful two-year long programme has been tailored to offer a detailed insight into a diverse range of front and back-of-house positions across its Roby Mill headquarters and Floral Pavilion affiliation.

Helen added: “To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week, we are delighted to announce that we are currently on the lookout to expand our team by welcoming two new apprentices. Here at Carringtons Catering we are true advocates for developing aspiring stars in the sector and encourage them to feel a genuine sense of pride and passion in what they do. In order to overcome the experience catch 22, increased opportunities must be available to young people, as ultimately they are the leaders of tomorrow.”