Shaping Futures: Empowering Young People in Hospitality Through Apprenticeships
with Compass Group and West Midlands Combined Authority
At Pathway Group, we are thrilled to celebrate the incredible success of our Path2Apprenticeships Hospitality in partnership with Compass Group UK&I. This dynamic pre-apprenticeship programme, funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority, has paved the way for aspiring hospitality professionals to launch meaningful careers in the thriving hospitality industry.
Unlocking Potential Through Opportunity
Our Path2Apprenticeships Hospitality programme offered participants more than just an introduction to the hospitality sector—it gave them the skills, qualifications, and real-world experience needed to excel in this fast-paced industry. Designed to be transformative, the programme combined practical work experience with expert-led workshops and personal development training.
Participants explored career pathways in various hospitality settings, including restaurants, cafés, pubs, bars, hotels, and catering venues. The hands-on experiences helped them gain valuable insights into kitchen operations, customer service, and front-of-house management. At the same time, site visits to hospitality venues provided an insider’s perspective on what it takes to succeed.
Developing Job-Ready Skills
Through self-assessments and goal-setting workshops, participants created personalised action plans to guide their development. They honed vital employability skills like CV writing, interview preparation, and effective communication. Mock interviews and tailored career planning sessions ensured they were prepared to transition confidently into apprenticeships or employment.
The programme also emphasised resilience, leadership, and cultural awareness. Sessions on safeguarding, British values, and inclusivity equipped participants with the tools to navigate both professional and personal challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of working in hospitality.
Work Experience at Xcelerate: A Unique Opportunity
One highlight of the programme was the invaluable work experience participants gained at Xcelerate, located at Edgbaston Cricket Ground. From sushi-making workshops and mocktail crafting to hosting a professional networking event for industry leaders, participants experienced first-hand the diverse opportunities available in hospitality. These activities developed technical skills and built confidence in hosting and interacting with professionals.
Achieving Industry-Recognised Qualifications
Participants earned accredited qualifications that bolstered their credentials and employability:
Award in Food Safety
Comprehensive training on food hygiene and safe handling practices.
Work Safely Certification
Essential knowledge for maintaining health and safety in hospitality workplaces.
These certifications ensure that participants are well-prepared to meet the safety and regulatory standards of the hospitality industry.
Real Impact, Real Futures
The impact of the Path2Apprenticeships Hospitality goes beyond skills and certifications. By the end of the programme, participants were not only job-ready but also equipped with the confidence to take the next step in their careers. For many, this meant transitioning into apprenticeship roles with Compass Group UK&I, where they will continue to develop their skills while contributing to the industry’s success.
A Future of Opportunity
At Pathway Group, we believe that skills change lives. The Path2Apprenticeships Hospitality embody this belief, creating opportunities for individuals to transform their passion into a fulfilling career. Our partnership with Compass Group UK&I and the support of the West Midlands Combined Authority has made this possible, ensuring that our participants are ready to thrive in the hospitality sector.
As we look to the future, we are excited to see how these talented individuals will continue to make their mark in the industry. Their success is a testament to the power of partnerships, real-world experience, and the importance of investing in people.
If you want to join the next cohort or explore how the Path2Apprenticeships Hospitality programme can help you unlock your potential, contact us today! Together, let’s build the future of hospitality.