Medium Employer of the Year

The Duke of Cornwall Hotel is run by Managing Director Walter Combstock, a former apprentice himself.  He is fantastic example of the positive career path that an Apprenticeship can provide, and a firm advocate of Apprenticeships. 

Walter says: “I firmly believe that Apprenticeships are the way forward for the hospitality industry as a whole.  We work in a practical industry where excellent ‘people’ skills are vital. Apprenticeships are crucial to the continued success of these businesses as they provide on the job learning.”

Walter ensures that apprentices are all supported and monitored by senior management.  He says: “All the Directors are committed to the development of the apprentices and are actively involved in coaching and training them.  This support lasts from induction to completion of the programme and beyond.

“Our programme has demonstrated that hands-on learning is good for employers and employees alike.”

The belief that apprentices are integral to the business considerably enhances the Hotel’s recruitment practices as they are able to retain staff and promote from within. 

Amy Woolly, who completed her Advanced Apprenticeship in 2006 at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, is an excellent example of the Hotel’s success in integrating apprentices.  She has since been promoted to senior receptionist and currently trains and mentors new learners.  Amy also acts as an ambassador for young people who wish to join the industry, and will soon be visiting schools to champion the Apprenticeship programme.

In 2006, the Duke of Cornwall Hotel was awarded the South West Medium Organisation Edge Employer Award, highlighting the fact that there are some fantastic opportunities for individuals in the hospitality industry.

The Duke of Cornwall Hotel also ensures that their Apprenticeship training is executed to the same high standard as the City College Plymouth. They work with the college closely to offer other hotels in the area the opportunity to learn from their expertise by training employees from these hotels in tasks that they cannot perform in their own establishments.  This encourages best practice and assists employees of these hotels in achieving a wider breadth of practical qualifications, thus broadening the skills base of their local area as a whole.

The Duke of Cornwall Hotel is a finalist in the Medium Employer of the Year category at the national Apprenticeship Awards 2007.