Launch of Culinary Academy for Chefs

In 2017, we launched the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy, creating a fully accredited apprenticeship programme for aspiring chefs. The original programme ran for two years and was established under the supervision of chef Steven Doherty, who had previously earned a Michelin star during his career. Our company history records the Academy's launch alongside the wider developments taking place across English Lakes during 2017. The Academy combined employment in our hotel kitchens with structured culinary education, giving trainees the opportunity to develop practical skills while earning a wage. It was subsequently delivered in partnership with Kendal College, with apprentices working alongside experienced chefs across English Lakes properties while completing accredited training. The programme was created to provide a practical route into professional kitchens for people beginning careers in hospitality and to support the development of chefs within our own workforce. The Culinary Academy has continued to evolve since its launch, with later programmes providing pathways through Level 2 Commis Chef and Level 3 Chef de Partie qualifications.