On Wednesday 27th August, The QHotels Collection proudly hosted its inaugural Chef Apprentice Graduation at the elegant Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. The event celebrated the achievements of our Level 2 Commis Chef and Level 3 Chef de Partie apprentices, marking a milestone that recognises not only culinary skill but also dedication, resilience, and passion.
Growing in Skills & Confidence
For our graduates, the past two years have been a journey of learning, creativity, resilience and personal growth. They’ve spent countless hours in busy hotel kitchens, mastering the technical skills every chef needs while discovering and refining their own culinary style. Along the way, they’ve built confidence, learned to thrive under pressure, and grown into valued members of their teams.
This first graduation marks the moment where all their hard work, commitment and achievements are celebrated in a lasting moment of well-deserved recognition.
Beyond the Kitchen: Building Skills for Life
Apprentices at QHotels don’t just learn how to cook – they develop resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills. They gain the ability to manage time and resources, collaborate under pressure, and take pride in delivering excellence in every dish. The programme encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence, providing tools that empower apprentices to grow both professionally and personally.
Kayleigh Dukes, The QHotels Talent & Apprenticeship Development Partner said: “Our apprenticeship programmes are designed to give people real opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive in their careers. Seeing our first cohort graduate was such a proud moment, as it shows what can be achieved with the right support and dedication. These apprentices represent the future of our industry, and it’s inspiring to watch them take the next step in their journey with The QHotels Collection”.
Apprenticeship Spotlight: James Hodson, Ashford International Hotel & Spa
“When I first joined the apprenticeship, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it has been an incredible journey of growth and discovery. The hands-on kitchen experience and masterclasses have given me the skills, knowledge, and confidence to work in a professional environment, and I’ve learned so much more than I ever imagined. Every stage has pushed me to improve, from building my technical abilities to developing the resilience and teamwork needed in a busy kitchen. The apprenticeship has shown me that with dedication and passion, you can keep progressing and achieve great things. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next”. – James Hodson, Level 2 Commis Chef Graduate
A Celebration of People and Values
The graduation evening was a true celebration of success. With an exquisite dinner prepared by Group Executive Head Chef, William Guthrie, apprentices, colleagues, and senior leaders gathered to recognise the achievements of our first cohort. More than a ceremony, the evening reflected QHotels’ people-focused culture and brought our values of pride, passion, curiosity, individuality, and togetherness to life.
William Guthrie, Group Executive Head Chef at The QHotels Collection shared his praise: “Watching our first cohort of chef apprentices graduate was an incredibly proud moment as I get such joy from watching young chefs grow. These talented individuals have worked tirelessly, learning, creating, and growing every step of the way. This graduation isn’t just a celebration of their skills in the kitchen, it’s a recognition of their dedication, resilience, and potential. I’m excited to see how they continue to develop and the impact they will have on the future of hospitality at The QHotels Collection”.
The Value of Apprenticeships
At The QHotels Collection, apprenticeships are more than training programmes, they are launchpads for ambition, growth and opportunity. Entry is not based on strict qualifications; but on passion, curiosity, and pride in one’s work. Across our hotels and support hubs, apprentices gain hands-on experience while learning the skills that shape careers, from culinary arts to hospitality management, spa therapy, golf operations and more.
Our “earn while you learn” model combines real work in our hotels with structured training, mentorship, and guidance from industry-leading partners. This approach builds confidence, develops new skills and prepares apprentices for the next stage of their careers.
The success of our first graduating cohort is a testament to the opportunities QHotels provides to unlock potential, strengthen teamwork, and cultivate the leaders of tomorrow.
Ready to start your journey?
Whether you’re beginning your career, changing direction, or taking the next step in hospitality, The QHotels Collection apprenticeship and career opportunities provide the skills, experience and support to help you succeed.
Take the first step toward a rewarding career today: https://www.qhotels.co.uk/careers/
