Umbrella Training have a fantastic partnership with CH&CO, enabling us to work closely to grow their Apprenticeship Academies and develop bespoke leadership, hospitality, and chef programmes. We asked Apprentice Emma about her apprenticeship journey with us.

Emma Duke receiving her 2022 Purple Umbrella Award

I was looking at the next step in my career and I knew an apprenticeship would be a good way to support me on my journey.

Signing up for the programme was very easy. I spoke to my L&D department and my line manager and it was a couple of simple forms.

The biggest challenge i had with my apprenticeship was passing my maths qualification. I struggled for a long time with it. I got help from Umbrella and Philip Black (who was an absolute star in helping build my knowledge and confidence) and was delighted when I passed.

I was nominated for and won the purple umbrella award in 2022 which was a massive achievement. I also received a certificate of outstanding achievement at the Hospitality Apprenticeship Showcase held at the house of commons during National Apprenticeship week. Another highlight was that I got a promotion within my company halfway through my apprenticeship.

I absolutely think apprenticeships are an amazing way to train for your career, not just in hospitality but in all industries. We need to work harder with our future generations to help them to understand that not everyone is made the same way and if exams don’t go their way, there is always other options. We need to offer support and guidance that allows them to grow in whatever they want to achieve.

I am extremely satisfied with my apprenticeship programme with Umbrella Training. I have felt helped and supported along every step of my journey from the beginning of the apprenticeship right until the end. Someone was always on the end of the phone or email to help me if i had questions.

I always felt there was a great deal of support at my disposal if I needed it. I would very much like to do another apprenticeship with Umbrella. I'm aware that I am currently on the highest one they offer, so if Level 6 becomes available in the future I would be happy to take this on.

I absolutely recommend an Apprenticeship with Umbrella Training. The apprenticeship has changed my life for the better in so many ways. Not just the rewards I have already benefited from doing it but also from my own knowledge and confidence growing.

“I would like to re-iterate again what a fantastic team the Umbrella staff are. They are supportive, friendly and reassuring. The offer expertise and guidance and I would highly recommend anyone to use them.”

"Nothing is impossible, you only need to believe in yourself."