Crowne Plaza Harrogate launch new Chef Development Academy

Launching in August, Crowne Plaza Harrogate will be one of twelve carefully selected hotels to take part in the pilot scheme.

While undergoing their training, trainees will be paid an annual salary of £20,000pa and receive a full starter kit, including chef whites, shoes and their own knife set.

Ranked in the top six ‘Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2022’ by The Catey Awards – the Oscars of the hospitality sector – for the third time, Valor will work in partnership with expert hospitality apprenticeship and training provider, Umbrella Training to deliver the programme.

With a mix of one-to-one tutoring and on-the-job training starting at apprentice Level 2, the scheme provides candidates with the opportunity to reach head chef level within five years.

Valor will also enable its Academy group at Crowne Plaza Harrogate to compete for quarterly bonuses for those who have demonstrated the greatest development in skills and expertise.

Recognising the importance of long-term retention of their trainees, Valor is also offering a guaranteed pay increase to a minimum of £22,500 upon completion of the initial 12-month Academy.

Valor’s apprentice team will also undertake a number of unique, off-site, immersive experiences at locations such as Billingsgate Market and Taste of London, as part of their newly designed Culinary Club.

Harrogate charity warns soaring energy costs will hit disabled people the hardest

James Tomlinson, General Manager at Crowne Plaza Harrogate, said: “Valor is looking to develop the next generation of culinary superstars across the country, and we’re excited to be one of the hotels involved in the apprentice scheme.

"The Chef Academy provides a brilliant opportunity for local people to get in the hospitality industry, all the while providing them with the training to have a thoroughly progressive career.

“As the hospitality industry deals with a chef shortage, there has never been a better time to seriously consider a career as a chef.

"The scheme will provide people with all the necessities to thrive in a culinary career.

"It’s such an interesting sector to be in and the opportunities for growth and career development are endless.

"Couple that with the growth that Valor is also experiencing, starting a career with us should be an exciting proposition whether you’re looking for a career change or just starting out.”

Valor will begin the recruitment process mid-May with the aim of launching the academy in August.

For more information on Valor Hospitality, visit www.valorhospitality.com

Here are the nine best places to go for Afternoon Tea in Harrogate according to Google Reviews