Training Programme For Welsh Chefs Extended
A work-based training programme, supported by People 1st, to benchmark the skills of chefs in Wales is to be extended following a successful pilot project.
The Applied Ability Awards, known as Triple A, was launched in Wales in 2008. The pilot training project was designed to drive up standards in the hospitality industry across the nation by improving the skills of chefs.
People 1st was part of the project steering group, which aimed to guide up to 180 chefs to achieve Applied Ability Awards at either foundation chef or chef level within two years. This target was eclipsed, with 255 chefs now registered on the programme along with 70 mentors and around 100 companies.
People 1st is also working with the Triple A national committee and the British Food Trust to develop a qualification around the programme and include it within the professional cookery apprenticeship, alongside the NVQ.
As a result of Triple A, one of the companies registered on the programme - S. A. Brain and Co - has established an academy for all its chefs in partnership with work-based learning providers, Cambrian Training Company, based in Welshpool and ACT in Cardiff.
From August 2010, People 1st will be piloting a level 3 Triple A programme for senior level chefs, funded by the Welsh Assembly Government. This will offer excellent progression opportunities for those who have already undertaken the foundation and chef level programmes, and provide a benchmark for chefs already working at that level.
People 1st's head of Wales, Bryan Roderick, commented: “The Triple A programme is truly an industry solution made for industry. It provides a suitable benchmark for employers to test the skills of students, something which can be difficult with a NVQ qualification.
“We are also pleased to be supporting the seven chef guilds and the British Food Trust to incorporate Triple A within the apprenticeship framework.
“Whilst the NVQ offers employers flexibility to meet their business needs, the Triple A provides an alternative for those looking for consistent content, providing essential skills and knowledge alongside the mentoring and end test.”
It is envisaged that that the Triple A programme will be integrated into the apprenticeship by Spring 2011.
For more information on People 1st's work on the Triple A programme, contact bryan.roderick@people1st.co.uk
