Aspire Apprenticeship Success

Shaping the future of hospitality with Aspire

Ever wondered where we find our amazing general managers? Or what kind of pathways and opportunities are available for those looking to work in hospitality? As a family business in an industry as fast-paced as hospitality, we think it’s important that our front-of-house and kitchen teams are given opportunities to rise within the business and grow within our family. That’s why we have the aspire programme - an exciting 12-month apprenticeship program available to all our managed house team members across all levels, designed to elevate them and provide them with the skills and experience to progress into managerial positions all whilst continuing to work and apply their new found knowledge in real in-pub experiences.  What better way to learn than to be able to apply the knowledge first hand in their current role and gain a broader understanding of how the learned material is applied in real scenarios. Our Aspire apprenticeship programme is ran by our fantastic training executive, James Robinson who has many training qualifications as well as 25 years' experience working in hospitality- he even still works in a pub on weekends because he’s just not ready to give up bar work and is a true hospitality champion!

Now, we’re sure you’re wondering if the manager in your local pub has been through our terrific programme, well if you’ve ever been to the Bulls Head in Hale Barns you have likely been greeted by Beth Donnelly- our friendly faced Duty Manager, event planner, social media guru and former Aspire student. Beth joined the Bulls Head halfway through her managerial training. Nicky, the General Manager of the Bulls Head took her on intending to assist her with the completion of her training so that she could step into a managerial position. Beth was keen to get stuck in and continued her training with us, completing her course with flying colours and taking on the challenging Duty Manager role at one of our busiest and most popular managed houses! Beth showed a strong passion in the events and social media side of the business, therefore Nicky delegated these responsibilities to her, and we must say Beth has been doing a cracking job. Beth is certain to make waves at Robinsons and we are confident we will see her as a General Manager of her own pub in the coming years following further training from Aspire!

Our Aspire programme and opportunities for growth truly represent that a pub job is the doorway for a career in hospitality, rather than a stepping stone along the way. As a family business, we truly value the growth of the people who are the beating hearts of our pubs, and we will continue to support them to grown on their journeys. If you’re considering a career within hospitality, take a look at our careers page and join the family!