Galvin at Windows hosts employment initiative for students

Galvin at Windows has launched a Young Adults Employment Initiative in partnership with Bridge the Skills Gap to provide career opportunities for young hospitality talent.

The 12-week programme, which launched this summer, saw five hospitality and catering students from Tameside College hosted at the London Hilton on Park Lane. 

The students were provided with accommodation and meals in addition to being paid, and were able to work in a variety of roles in the restaurant; serving guests, managing sections, table side carving as well as other key functions. 

They were mentored by the restaurant’s general manager, Peter Avis FIH (Virgin Group, Kensington Roof Gardens) and his restaurant manager, Antonino Forte.

All students were paid full time hours, and on successful completion of the programme, they will be offered full time positions either at Galvin at Windows or one of the Galvin sister restaurants.

The project has been developed by Avis, who said he “passionately believes” in the need to showcase British hospitality “now more than ever”. 

Avis said: “The collaboration of industry and education is crucial to help plug the skills gap and attract more young people into hospitality. The industry offers so many fantastic opportunities to build a fulfilling career, and we’re delighted to be supporting young people’s first steps into the sector through this scheme, ultimately helping to build a strong talent pipeline to protect the future of the industry. 

“Excited to also share that we are accepting a new group of students to join the programme from this coming September.”

Daniel Gavin, food and beverage student at Tameside College, said: “I am elated to get the chance to improve my craft in London, in one of the top restaurants. It will be great to work with some of the best service staff and management in the industry to develop new skills and knowledge. It’s definitely something I can put on my CV for the future.”