Umbrella Training turns to virtual reality to inspire the next generation of chefs

Umbrella Training has introduced a virtual training programme to target the next generation of commis chefs in the hospitality industry.

The programme is designed to appeal to Gen Z and Gen A potential chefs who are more comfortable learning and experiencing through simulation and VR technology.

Three scenarios have been initially released, aligned to Level 2 commis chef development, including an introduction to the kitchen environment, preparation of spatchcock chicken and preparation of boulangère potatoes.

The scenarios, developed with Metaverse Learning, see learners meet their head chef at the door before entering a virtual kitchen and exploring the space.

Students are required to navigate a series of interactive items as they arrive at their station and are tasked with following a recipe. These include ensuring the learner has washed their hands, cleaned their station down, selected the correct colour-coded board and carried out the required mis en place for the scenario.

Adele Oxberry, founder and chief executive of Umbrella Training, said: “The retention of young students is key, which is why our aim is to make a difference with young people in a language and style they embrace.”

She added: “With these programmes we are addressing a brand new generation of learners who are more digitally-, distance- and flexible learning-focused.

“Their new learning characteristics are more diverse than we have managed before and this is the generation we need to attract into our industry who will hopefully have life-long careers in hospitality.

“For us, as educators and learning and development professionals, I think we need to realise it is no longer exciting and different to give them videos, 3D models and explorable VR content in our teaching or training – it is actually expected.”

Pete Redman, chef director at BM, said at the launch of the virtual training programme: “This is a really exciting development and a really useful way to engage new people into our sector.

“Our sector is incredibly hands-on and this technology helps to bridge the gap between the needs of our sector and the way in which young people are keen to learn. The application and opportunities are endless and this could have a huge impact.”