Chef launches hospitality programme 'first ' with his old school
TV chef Liam Dillon has partnered with his old school to create a hospitality training programme for local sixth formers.
Five chosen students from King Edward VI School Lichfield will spend a year at Liam 's restaurant, across different departments and roles, graduating with a certificate of merit.
The paid placement will help the students either gain entry into the hospitality industry or support them in applications for jobs and higher education.
Liam, owner of The Boat Inn, said: “The hospitality industry, like many others, has been negatively affected by the pandemic and Brexit. Hundreds of thousands of people have left the sector and unfortunately, we haven 't seen enough people join to fill the gap.
“Many see working in a pub or restaurant as a 'basic ' job or rite of passage while studying. I want to change this attitude. It 's hard work in hospitality. ”
Liam who has starred in BBC TV 's Great British menu twice is working with his old school, King Edward VI School Lichfield.
The scheme will invite five sixth form students to apply for a scheme place working front of house, in the kitchens and outside in the kitchen garden for an academic year.
Liam said: “Like many teenagers I didn 't know what I wanted to do. At one point I was going to join the Marines but caught the cookery bug at school and progressed up through the ranks because my teachers helped tune my desire for learning.
“I have a great deal of support from my teachers and they contributed to where I am now as a chef, business owner and person. ”
Jane Rutherford, head teacher at King Edward VI School Lichfield, said: “One of our ongoing challenges is to find high-quality work experience placements for students.
“We want to support students taking up part-time paid jobs to have a positive experience and get the balance right with their studies and so a programme like this benefits everyone.
“Higher education establishments and employers want well-rounded students with academic results and key life skills. This scheme will benefit the school, The Boat Inn and most importantly our students who will be able to showcase the scheme on university, college, apprenticeship, or job applications.
“It is a win-win for everyone and I 'm delighted to be partnering with Liam. ”
The Boat Inn has three AA Rosettes and is listed in the Michelin Guide.
This is the second initiative Liam has created for his old school.
During the Covid-19 lockdown, he prepared Heat At Home meals for staff at King Edward VI to help keep them motivated.
Pictured: Liam Dillon, Jane Rutherford and sixth form senior prefects