Apprentices from Reading College and University Centre have been recognised for their achievements at a special awards evening celebrating the success of Activate Learning’s partnership with family-owned hospitality business Hall & Woodhouse.
The event, held at Reading College and University Centre on Tuesday evening, brought together apprentices, colleagues and representatives from Hall & Woodhouse to celebrate the skills, commitment and progression of hospitality and catering apprentices completing their training through Activate Apprenticeships.
Apprentices received certificates recognising their achievements. Apprentice Paul Chanpom was named winner of the evening’s MasterChef competition and apprentice Jonathan Drake was awarded runner-up.
Hall & Woodhouse apprentice awards evening
The apprentices also had the opportunity to demonstrate the skills they have developed through their training, helping to prepare and serve food for guests throughout the evening.
Their involvement gave guests an opportunity to see first-hand the professional skills, confidence and experience apprentices are developing through a combination of workplace learning and specialist training.
The awards evening highlighted the close partnership between Activate Learning and Hall & Woodhouse and their shared commitment to developing talented people within the hospitality industry.
Commitment to develop talent in hospitality
Anthony Woodhouse, Chairperson at Hall & Woodhouse, said: “We choose really carefully who we work with as it only really works if you share a common sense of purpose. When the purpose is there and the objectives are aligned, success is increased dramatically.
“What’s fantastic is seeing the impact and growth in self-confidence and the number of apprentices who are promoted from that. It’s a real trigger for taking people forward.
“Sitting at the core of everything we do is being a great place to work and giving talented people the opportunity to fulfil their potential. There is nothing like investing in training to show that a role is valued and the individual is valued.
“You provide talented people with the support and the opportunity to grow, and they feel proud to be part of the company.”
Tailored apprenticeships to meet employer need
Vlad Nicolae, Level 3 Senior Production Chef Apprentice, said: “It’s been an exciting day, I felt really proud to cook for all of our guests. What I’ve learned throughout the course is to help others and share the knowledge that we have.”
Activate Learning works closely with Hall & Woodhouse to deliver apprenticeship training shaped around the organisation’s workforce requirements, combining specialist education with the apprentices’ experience in the workplace.
Simon Rosam, Director of Delivery at Activate Learning, said: “This partnership has led to a very close relationship between Activate Learning and Hall & Woodhouse to develop a bespoke apprenticeship that meets the employer’s specific needs.
“This apprenticeship is one that is designed by Hall & Woodhouse and delivered by us alongside other colleges. Our apprentices have a bright future and are within an organisation that truly values and develops its people.”
Giving apprentices the opportunity to thrive
The partnership demonstrates the role apprenticeships can play in helping employers develop their workforce while giving individuals the opportunity to gain valuable skills, professional experience and recognised qualifications.
By working closely with employers such as Hall & Woodhouse, Activate Learning can ensure apprenticeship training reflects the skills businesses need while supporting apprentices to build their confidence, fulfil their potential and progress in their careers.
Congratulations to Paul, Jonathan and all of the apprentices recognised during the evening.
