Hotel apprentices set for next level

THE success of three accomplished apprentices who have made their mark at an award-winning Wester Ross hotel is being hailed to flag up a scheme helping to develop future business leaders.

Two of the apprentices, who spotted the opportunity at a Wester Ross hotel after reading about it in the Ross-shire Journal, are now set to spread their wings.

The Torridon is now into its fourth year with the Apprenticeship in Hospitality (AHS) scheme, a training platform for managers of the future.

Rosie Wilkins, Rebecca Hingston and Rosa Cawthorne have all come through the ranks at the upmarket hotel’s programme.

Rosie is entering her fourth year at The Torridon and is now about to embark on a trainee manager role.

She said: "The apprenticeship has given me a focus, and the chance to experience four different departments within the industry, giving me the knowledge and skills that I need to pursue my career in hospitality."

Her focus will be guest relations, ensuring that each guest receives a 5-star service.

Winning Skills Development Scotland (SDS) Apprentice of the year last year has catapulted her onto the hospitality stage as an ambassador for young people and for apprentices across Scotland.

Rosie has been in high demand to speak at many conferences, meetings and events to talk about her experiences as an apprentice. Her ambition is to be a general manager in the future.

Rebecca has been hailed as a shining example to the rest of the team, having almost completed her full circle two-year programme, working in each department of the hotel, housekeeping, food and beverage, kitchen and now reception.

She has developed confidence, skills and abilities and now meets and greets guests, ensuring that first impressions of the Torridon are the best.

Rebecca has enjoyed each department, but particularly the kitchen. Rebecca had read about the apprenticeship in the Ross-shire Journal and applied. She said: "The apprenticeship has opened many doors for me. It’s made me realise hospitality is what I want do. I’m very excited to take the skills I’ve gained to work and travel around the world."

The hotel’s Rohaise Rose-Bristow, who has overseen the scheme, added: "Our newest apprentice Rosa is making her mark working in food and beverage, notably looking after our guests to a five-star level and has, after a short time, been personally mentioned on Trip Advisor for excellent service.

"Learning each and every day the professional skills required to develop in hospitality, Rosa’s most recent masterclass to Gleneagles has reaffirmed the dedication and commitment required to deliver customer service to the highest standard."

AHS apprenticeship vacancies are now available at The Torridon and across the rest of Scotland.