Scotland’s future hospitality leaders have taken their first career steps at an ‘inspiring induction’ day held at City of Glasgow College.
Sixteen new Modern Apprentices from across Scotland gathered to begin their journey as part of the Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland programme – a national initiative that unites both professional cookery and hospitality services apprenticeships under one banner.
The day-long event, introduced by Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland chair Gordon McIntyre, led by Billy McNeil of Luxury Textiles and hosted by the college, was designed to ‘spark ambition, build confidence and reinforce the message that hospitality is a career with global potential’.
Scotland’s National Chef and 2016 MasterChef: The Professionals winner, Gary Maclean, delivered the keynote talk, tracing his own journey from modest beginnings in the industry to becoming Associate Director for International Relations at City of Glasgow College.
His appeared as a “compelling reminder that with the right attitude and opportunities, hospitality can take you anywhere”.
Apprentices also took part in interactive workshops focused on their personal development – from goal setting and visualising future success to planning their learning journey.
They also heard insights from two alumni – Jack McNeil, guest services manager at Estelle Manor, who has continued to develop his career through the programme, and Hannah Kerridge, now a duty manager at Leonardo Hotels in Aberdeen.
Hannah, who started her apprenticeship during the Covid lockdowns, said: “I started at one of the toughest points for our industry, but the apprenticeship gave me structure, purpose and the belief that I could build a career in hospitality.
“Now I’m in management – and still learning every day.”
Participating employers in this year’s apprentice intake include Crieff Hydro, Apex Edinburgh, Meldrum House, The Torridon, Douneside House, Dalmahoy Hotel, Trump Turnberry, Banchory Lodge, The Chester Hotel and Leonardo’s Aberdeen.
The programme, backed by Skills Development Scotland, is delivered in partnership with City of Glasgow College, where apprentices are supported by SVQ assessors throughout their development.
The year ahead includes specialist masterclasses, behind-the-scenes visits to local producers and industry partners, and practical workplace experience that prepares apprentices for long-term success in the industry.
Chair of Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland, Gordon McIntyre, said: “This induction day wasn’t just about welcoming the new intake – it was about reminding every apprentice, and every employer in the room, that hospitality is one of Scotland’s most dynamic and people-focused industries.
“We are building a pipeline of future managers, chefs, and leaders who will carry forward Scotland’s global reputation for excellence.”
