School leavers are being offered the chance to train at a Michelin-starred Lake District restaurant.
The Cottage in the Wood, on the Whinlatter Pass near Keswick, won its first Michelin star last October.
Recently reopened following the UK’s lockdown, its owners Liam and Kath Berney, said they were moved by the plight of school and college leavers whose A-level and GCSE results have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The couple, who have both had long careers in education and training, have decided to offer two hospitality apprenticeships in partnership with Kendal College.
Liam said: “In recognition of all the talent that is leaving school or college this summer, whether your results have come out as hoped or not, we have decided to take on two apprentices.
“The most important thing is that you are passionate about looking after people, and aspire to a career in our fantastic industry.”
The apprenticeship could be in the kitchen, where chef director Ben Wilkinson gained his Michelin accolade, front of house in the restaurant with restaurant director Monika Zurawska, or in leadership and management.
Liam added: “Training in a Michelin-star establishment is a real endorsement and looks good on a CV.
“This is a great opportunity to join a small, talented, friendly team, with a long history of valuing learning and helping young people develop.”
Liam added that this could also be a great opportunity for someone considering university, with a degree level apprenticeship or even an MBA open to the right candidate.
They would also like to hear from people who have other experience and want to change career, or perhaps recent graduates who may have worked part-time in hospitality during their studies.
The Cottage in the Wood, a restaurant with rooms, reopened to resident diners on 10th July. It opened for lunch to non-residents on 17th July and plans to open again for dinner to non-residents soon.
