‘My Young Apprenticeship has given me the skills and opportunity to get on the career ladder at 14, which would have been unlikely if I had been at school full-time,’ comments Craig.
Craig began his career in the hospitality sector working part-time at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Christleton, as part of his Young Apprenticeship. He was rapidly drawn into the sector getting involved in breakfast and lunch preparations, and event organising.
To broaden his experience, Craig undertook his Year 10 work placement at the Hotel: ‘I love the buzz of a busy kitchen - it’s unbeatable.’
Craig’s manager, Fiona Lockyer, referred to him as a breath of fresh air, bringing youth and enthusiasm to the kitchen. ‘Craig is a pleasure to teach; he is keen to learn and is always working to improve himself.’
A proud Craig continues: ‘My knife skills have improved and I can now work in a quicker, more professional manner. I have also started researching dishes on the internet and making suggestions to the chef.’
Commenting on Craig’s Apprenticeship, Phil Grey at West Cheshire College said: ‘The Young Apprenticeship has been the making of Craig and he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands. He has a fantastic career in hospitality ahead of him.’
In November 2006, Craig won the award for the Most Promising Tourism/Hospitality Student in the Cheshire Awards for Tourism. He was also named a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category.
Currently finishing his GCSE’s, Craig works most weekends and school holidays at the Hotel. He hopes to start at a caterer college in September to pursue his ambition of becoming a head chef in a large hotel within the next five years.
The Ramada Jarvis Hotel has offered Craig a full time position on completion of his qualifications and has also agreed to pay for Craig to attend college and continue with his education in September 2007.
Craig is a finalist in the Young Apprentice of the Year category in the national Apprenticeship Awards 2007.
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