A fully funded development programme gives ambitious chefs the opportunity to advance their technical, leadership and commercial skills within one of the UK’s largest hospitality operations. The launch comes as The Belfry unveils a new kitchen leadership structure, with Robert Bates promoted to Culinary Director and Dean Cole appointed Executive Head Chef.

Led by Robert Bates, Culinary Director at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, the Academy offers both new entrants and  experienced chefs the opportunity to develop advanced skills while gaining both experience and qualification within one of the Uks largest hospitality operations. This is all geared towards addressing one of hospitality's most pressing problems: a workforce that isn't being trained fast enough, or broadly enough, to fill the roles the industry needs.

The sector has the highest skills density deficit of any part of the UK economy, at 6.2%, estimated to be costing hospitality businesses £55m a year in inefficient training. Bates, drawing on years of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens around the world, has designed The Chef Academy to close that gap from the ground up, with live positions open at every level of the kitchen rather than a single entry point.

Delivered in partnership with HIT Training - the UK's leading specialist training and apprenticeship provider for hospitality, catering and retail - the programme combines on-the-job experience, in-person and online workshops, and self-directed study, with paid hours ring-fenced every week specifically for skills development.

What distinguishes The Chef Academy from other hospitality apprenticeships is the depth of its masterclass curriculum, delivered by HIT's professional chefs. These include sustainability-focused sessions such as Future Food: Cooking for the Climate, and business-skills training through Kitchen Intelligence: Branding & Budgeting. Level 3 apprentices go further still, with specialist masterclasses on sugar work, chocolate craft and The Art of Inclusive Patisserie & Dessert amongst others.

Applications for The Chef Academy are now open. To apply, visit thebelfry.com/careers or email people.team@thebelfry.com