Gain National Qualifications with PGL

PGL is pleased to offer our staff the opportunity to complete the nationally-recognised Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship in Hospitality (Catering).

This level and strand of the scheme is optional. To be eligible for this training programme, you must be employed by PGL in an active cooking role, e.g. Chef or experienced Catering Assistant undertaking preparation duties.

You will have the chance to apply for a place on the scheme towards the end of your first season, however some roles may be available to start during your first season if you demonstrate excellent potential! Unlike some companies, there are no age restrictions on our apprenticeships and the programmes are offered free of charge on the proviso that you complete your contract of employment with PGL.

During this programme, you will work towards obtaining several awards, which make up the overall Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship in Hospitality (Catering) and are awarded by City and Guilds and People 1st.

These include the Level 2 Diploma in Food Production and Cooking which covers:

1) Hygiene;
2) Safety;
3) Preparation and cooking techniques;
4) Ordering;
5) Customer Service.

Depending on your job role, you then complete a specialist module that focuses on your area on work.

These include:

Kitchen Services (for Catering Assistants);
Drink Services (for Retail Assistants with bar duties);
Food Preparation and Cooking (for Assistant Chefs);
Professional Cookery (Preparation) (for Chefs and Head Chefs)
Front Office (for Administrators and Receptionists) 

The programme usually takes 12 months or a full season to finish but can be completed within this period depending on the speed you want to work at!

Candidates enrolled on the Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship programme will also work towards gaining Key Skills Certificates in Application of Number 1 and Communication 1. You'll also work towards the Technical Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles.

You may have the opportunity to complete certificates in Food Safety and Health and Safety, both at Level 2, depending on your job role.

Everyone on this scheme will undertake training to raise awareness of Employment Rights and relevant catering-focused legislation as well as training on PGL's systems and procedures.

Download a course factsheet for the Intermediate Level Apprenticeship in Hospitality>

How am I assessed?

Don't worry! There are no scary exams or lengthy assignments to prepare - Apprenticeships are designed to help you grow your competencies as you settle into your job and develop your competencies for the future, therefore all assessments are by qualified assessor observations of you simply doing your job, a portfolio of evidence that you prepare and simple online multiple choice questionnaires.

The portfolio you create will comprise of examples of day-to-day working evidence and observations from your assessor. You will be supported by a designated PGL Training Officer throughout your Apprenticeship journey.

What will I gain from the Apprenticeship?

Firstly, you'll gain a nationally-recognised qualification that is yours for life and a valuable entry on your CV for the future, should you move on from PGL.

You'll also gain a Level 2 Diploma (NVQ) in your area of speciality, for example Food Production and Cooking for our catering staff. This is recognised UK-wide as the benchmark for industry competencies.

Two Key Skills certificates - these are particularly useful if your GCSE grades in Maths and English were D or below.

The training programme is offered free of charge and takes a full season to complete (e.g. January/February - October). There are no age or nationality restrictions as PGL is able to fund candidates who do not meet the standard criteria, if we can demonstrate to us that you have the passion for your development.

This training course is available free of charge, providing you complete your contract of employment with PGL.

Once you have completed the Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship, you can apply for a place on the Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship for the following season, as long as you are employed in a staff supervisory role.

Meet Adam - Chef at PGL Caythorpe Court>

Find out more about the Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship in Hospitality>