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Chefs' Academy Programme 2026

Job Introduction

Interested in a Career That’s Creative, Hands-On, and Full of Opportunity?

Build Your Culinary Career with the Chefs’ Academy

 

Exclusive Chefs’ Academy Programme

This isn’t just a kitchen role — it’s a two-year culinary development programme designed to help you grow from Commis Chef to Chef de Partie within some of the UK’s most respected hospitality kitchens.

For over 12 years, the Chefs’ Academy has supported emerging chef talent through structured development, real kitchen experience and exposure to a wide range of cooking styles. You’ll work across luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants and high-profile banqueting kitchens, learning directly from experienced chefs who are passionate about developing the next generation.


What You’ll Be Doing

• Working hands-on in a variety of professional kitchens across the Exclusive Collection

• Developing core culinary skills across sections including fine dining, banqueting and pastry

• Learning how to work with quality produce and maintain high food standards

• Supporting service delivery in fast-paced, professional kitchen environments

• Building confidence, organisation and consistency as a chef

• Developing leadership skills as you progress through the programme

• Visiting suppliers and learning how ingredients are sourced and selected

• Gaining encouragement and support to enter competitions and build your profile


What You’ll Bring

• A genuine passion for food and a desire to build a long-term culinary career

• Experience as a Commis Chef or relevant kitchen experience

• A positive attitude, strong work ethic and eagerness to learn

• Ability to work well under pressure in a busy kitchen environment

• Pride in quality, presentation and cleanliness

• Flexibility with working hours, including evenings and weekends

• Openness to rotation and relocation during the programme

• Curiosity, creativity and attention to detail


What You’ll Get

• A structured two-year development programme with clear progression

• Hands-on experience across a wide range of kitchens and styles

• Support, mentoring and coaching from experienced chefs

• Opportunities to grow into a Chef de Partie role on successful completion

• Competitive pay and benefits across the Exclusive Collection

• A supportive, inclusive and people-focused kitchen culture


Where You’ll Be Based

You’ll gain experience across any of our two Exclusive Collection properties, including:

• Pennyhill Park, Bagshot

• Royal Berkshire, Ascot

• Lainston House, Winchester

• Fanhams Hall, Ware

• South Lodge, Horsham

• The Manor House, Castle Combe


Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you’re passionate about food, motivated to learn and excited by the idea of building a career in professional kitchens, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and take your next step with the Chefs’ Academy – Exclusive Collection.

Apply

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