The Chester Grosvenor Apprenticeship Success Story

Award Winning Hospitality Academy

Tell us a little bit more about your organisation

The Chester Grosvenor is a five red star hotel located in the heart of Chester and overlooking the famous Eastgate Clock, said to be the most photographed clock in England after Big Ben. We have two award-winning restaurants, ‘Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor’, which has retained its Michelin star since 1990, and the 2 AA rosette La Brasserie which offers delicious all-day dining and a glamorous Champagne and cocktail bar.

We are also home to The Arkle Bar and Lounge where afternoon tea is served daily and a luxury boutique spa.

Tell us more about your 50in5 apprenticeship

We have an established apprenticeship programme that is running at capacity, with 10 apprentices in the Simon Radley Kitchen Academy, 2 Commis Waiter apprentices and 1 Facilities apprentice. Our next intakes will be in June and September 2019.

What made you want to recruit an apprentice?

We are very keen to nurture local talent and open to provide opportunities to people who may not have necessarily qualified historically.

At a time where many restaurants and hotels struggle to recruit and retain quality Chefs we have found that “growing our own” has been the perfect solution.

Talk us through the process – how easy was it to recruit your new apprentice through Total People?

Very easy. Total People take control of the initial recruitment stages which saves time and resources. The apprentices follow a structured programme of learning with many staying with us beyond their qualification and progressing further within the hotel.

Why did you choose Total People?

Total People is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the area and have a solid reputation.

What do you expect to be the benefits of recruiting through an apprenticeship?

As a five red star property our reputation is built on service. Investing in our people and their development is key to maintaining that standard. When staff have ‘grown with Grosvenor’ they feel part of the family and this is reflected in everything they do.

The process is very rewarding for the apprentice’s mentors and encourages their development too.

Would you recommend Total People to other employers? If so, why?

Yes, we have always found the process to work very smoothly with Total People.

Want to employ an apprentice for your business?

Make your apprenticeship commitment today at totalpeople.co.uk/50in5

Want to start an apprenticeship?

Find out more at totalpeople.co.uk/apprenticeships