Northcote announces search for five kitchen apprentices

Northcote has launched a kitchen apprenticeship programme under chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen.

The Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel in Ribble Valley, Lancashire, is looking for new talent amid plans for expansion.

Five successful apprentices will have the chance to work closely with Goodwin-Allen, winner of the 2022 Cateys Chef of the Year award, who manages the team, develops new dishes, and drives the commercial side of the kitchen.

Apprentices will also automatically be enrolled in Northcote’s training provider.

Over the two-year programme, apprentices will receive paid work experience, earning a minimum of £7 per during a 40-hour working week.

They will receive the same benefits as Northcote employees, such as 50% off food and drinks throughout the wider Stafford Collection, and staff accommodation if required.

Upon successful completion of the course, all apprentices will be invited to begin a permanent contract as a Northcote chef. They will also be awarded a level two or three qualification in Professional Cookery.

Apprenticeship schemes and paid in-house training programmes have also been launched by JKS, Rick Stein Restaurants and D&D London in an effort to combat staff shortages in the sector.

The restaurant at Northcote won its Michelin star in 1996 and since 2019 the hotel has been incorporated into the Stafford Collection family.