St Austell Brewery celebrates its apprentices
T his week we hosted a special event to celebrate the inspirational achievements of our current cohort of apprentices. The Big Apprentice Lunch took place at our Visitor Centre in St Austell.
From the engineers in our brewing department to chefs in our pubs, apprentices from across the business came together - alongside their academic mentors – to celebrate their achievements.
“We’re incredibly proud of our apprentices” said Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive. “Today has been a fitting way to pay tribute to their talent and efforts, with the people who have helped and guided them along the way.
“We are so passionate about investing in young talent in our region. We want to build their confidence for the future while giving them opportunities to learn, fully recognise their strengths, and become the best they can be – whether they stay with us or go on to achieve great things outside our business.”
Special awards were presented to three apprentices who had shown incredible growth and passion during their time with us so far.
Joe Thompson, apprentice service desk analyst, was presented with the Group Support Award. Within eight short months, Joe has become a fully integrated member of the IT team. Due to his success within the department, Joe has already secured a full-time project support role, while continuing to complete his apprenticeship.
Following exemplary college reports, Alex Vaughan was presented with the Beer and Brands Award. The engineering apprentice was described as a self-driven, personable professional with great communication skills. Alex’s line manager proudly confirmed he had become one of the most skilled and competent members of his team in a very short time.
Harry Reed, commis chef at the Mill on the Exe, was presented with the Pubs Inns and Hotels Award. Attendees were told how Harry is ‘absolutely excelling’ in his role.
Harry’s manager added: “Harry is kind, considerate, always enthusiastic, and always puts 110% into everything. He lights up our workplace and it’s a real pleasure to have him on the team.”
The apprentices also heard from guest speaker, top chef and Great British Menu star, John Hooker, who spoke about how he started out in the hospitality industry and his journey to running the Cornish Arms in Tavistock. The pub, which is part of St Austell Brewery’s tenanted estate, has been in the Top 50 UK Gastro Pubs list for the past decade.
For more information about becoming an apprentice with St Austell Brewery, visit www.staustellfamilygroup.co.uk/jobs-and-careers