Compass Scotland has unveiled its first bespoke Modern Apprenticeship Programme, with a commitment to creating and developing 100 new Modern Apprenticeship opportunities in its first year.
The apprenticeship programmes create a career progression roadmap for an individual to work toward, from a Foundation Apprenticeship, Modern Apprenticeship or a Graduate Apprenticeship, dependent on their current situation.
Marking the start of this new scheme, four Compass apprentices have started a four-year Graduate Apprenticeship in Business Management at the University of Strathclyde.
Foundation Apprenticeships have been developed in partnership with Skills Development Scotland, Eastbank Academy, City of Glasgow College and Glasgow City Council; and Modern Apprenticeships will be offered in partnership with Polaris and City of Glasgow College.
To deliver the Apprenticeship Programme, Compass Scotland is working closely with Scottish clients, Scottish businesses, hospitality industry stakeholders, colleges, and universities; with input from Compass Scotland’s Culinary Ambassador, Michelin-starred Chef Tom Kitchin.
The aim is to deliver an industry-leading, aspirational career pathways structure that offers genuine opportunities for skills development and progression, with apprenticeships in Culinary, Front of House, Facilities Management, Business Administration, Retail, Customer Service and Management.
Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK's largest food and support services firm, Compass Scotland launched as a distinct business in November 2020.
Compass Scotland MD, David Hay, commented: “This new scheme offers a truly bespoke opportunity, enabling 100 apprentices to learn about the fantastic hospitality industry that we have here in Scotland, directly from those working within it.
“Scotland has an excellent reputation for its hospitality and its world-renowned food and drink. As the industry recovers from the impact of the pandemic, we need to look to the future and ensure that the next generation of talent is nurtured and retained. The opportunities offered through our apprenticeship schemes will enable employees to change or enhance their careers, while supporting the future of the industry we feel so passionate about.
“It’s an exciting opportunity at the time we need it the most, and I’m excited to see the results.”
Jonathan Foot, Head of Apprenticeships and Early Careers at Compass Group UK & Ireland, added: “As an organisation, we offer many excellent learning and development opportunities, but this is the first time we have had something Scotland specific. We have made a commitment to Modern Apprenticeships, supporting the skills development of existing employees as well as attracting new talent. Our structured career pathways offer opportunities for all roles and ages across all business sectors within Compass Scotland.”
Speaking on his involvement, Chef Tom Kitchin said: "I am very excited to be working with Compass on their apprenticeship scheme, which should help to bring through the next generation of hospitality talent in the UK."
