The Talbot Collection, one of the country’s well-established hotel groups, are once again investing in their innovative Trainee Chef Development Programme. The aim of the programme is to help trainee Chefs learn, progress, and excel in their careers with a growing, progressive, and family-owned Irish company.

With an investment of more than €250,000, the Talbot Collection set a precedent with last year’s course which saw 19 chefs across the hotel collection learn from the best in the industry at the KWETB (Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board) professional training kitchens.

Running in conjunction with KWETB, all trainees will receive a salary, accommodation, meals, and transport for the duration of the 25-week programme. Upon completion, each candidate will receive a City and Guilds Level 2, Diploma in Culinary Skills (the equivalent to a QQI Level 5 Award).

Following the programme, they will have the opportunity to learn and work on-the-job with a team of experienced Chefs in one of The Talbot Collection’s six hotels: Talbot Hotel Wexford, Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, Talbot Hotel Carlow, Midleton Park Hotel, Oriel House Hotel or the Talbot Hotel Clonmel. This will be a continued permanent, full-time, and salaried contract as a Junior Commis Chef. Throughout their time on the job, candidates will receive continuous development by way of on-the-job training and experience, as well as additional online modules. They will also have the opportunity at the end of this tenure to take part in the Level 6 National Commis Chef Programme.

Group Managing Director of the Talbot Collection Philip F. Gavin said of the programme: “I had the pleasure of visiting the trainees on site last year in one of the training centres and to say I was excited and proud is an understatement! This training programme remains the first of its kind in Ireland and we’re hopeful that other businesses and groups will follow suit and start to invest in our hospitality industry in a similar way. The experience and practical skills that these trainee chefs are learning are truly second to none and after the success of last year’s programme I am very excited to see the talent that will emerge from this year’s programme.”

Jelena Medvedeva was one of the trainees who completed last year’s very first Chef Development Programme, she now works at the Talbot Collection Carlow as a Commis Chef. She said of her experience: “The Chef Development Programme taught me a lot and shaped me into the Chef I am today. I have reached many milestones during my time completing the programme at the Talbot Hotel Carlow. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be where I am today without Talbot Collection Chef Development Programme and the guidance and mentorship of Head Chef William Bayle, I loved my experience here and I am excited for all the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Eileen Cullen, Head of Training Services and Innovation in Kildare and Wicklow ETB said: “The success of last year’s programme is evident, with 11 chefs now working in full-time positions within the industry. The KWETB looks forward to working with The Talbot Collection again this year and we would encourage those looking to improve their skills in a supportive and progressive environment to consider applying.”