Hilton launches MEA chef apprenticeship scheme

Hilton Worldwide MEA has introduced a new chef apprenticeship training programme designed to create the next generation of professional culinary experts across its growing MEA hotel portfolio.

Supported and certified by City & Guilds accreditors and in partnership with the HTA School of Culinary Art, the new three-year programme will start in January 2013 and is expected to welcome hundreds of young and aspiring chefs currently working within the company.

“With over 300 restaurants across MEA, Hilton Worldwide is a leading operator in the hotel dining sector and it is critical we have the brightest and most talented chefs working in our properties," said Hilton Worldwide MEA director of culinary Knud Bundgaard.

"Today’s announcement takes us to the next stage of training and reflects the importance we place on developing and motivating key members of our culinary teams,” he added.

The initiative will deliver 12 modules per year and will combine theory and practical learning while in-house tutoring will be available to enable students to earn while studying.

HTA School of Culinary Art will be responsible for theoretical testing while City & Guilds will officiate the final exams at the end of the three year programme.