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Caterer Thomas Franks creates chef apprenticeship for school leavers

4th Sep 2025 - 05:00
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Contract caterer Thomas Franks creates chef apprenticeship for school leavers
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Contract caterer Thomas Franks has launched a chef apprenticeship for school leavers titled ‘Craft’, which is targeted at young people aged 16-19-years-old who are seeking an alternative to traditional education.

The new Craft programme by Thomas Franks aims to provide a pathway for young people who may find themselves excluded from economic life due to their location, age or educational outcomes.

Apprentices will complete the PLG Level 2 Commis Chef course over 14 months and their statutory learning will be supplemented by a series of culinary masterclasses through the Thomas Franks Chef Academy.

Vicky Freeman, chief people officer at Thomas Franks, said: “We are deeply committed to learning and development, so the launch of a 16-19 apprenticeship programme was a natural step. Kitchens are the perfect place to learn on the job, where creativity is encouraged, and where experience and expertise are passed down through the ranks.

“We know that formal education isn’t for everybody. Many of our employees – including our board of directors – didn’t take A-Levels or go to university, and they have built excellent careers in an industry that values their skills and experience, rather than their formal education.

“I am entirely confident that our first-rate training and supportive culture will help our first intake of Craft apprentices to reach the top of their profession in the years to come, and I encourage creative young people with a desire to learn and work hard, to apply.”

Apprentices will have a core workplace at one of Thomas Franks’ locations and will also spend time visiting different kitchens across the business. If you are interested to applying, visit here.

Written by
Edward Waddell