Compass Group UK and Ireland, recognised as the largest food and services company in the UK, is extending its collaboration with Brakes to invest further in the Junior Chef Academy programme. This partnership, which spans the next three years, aims to provide schoolchildren with vital skills while introducing them to potential career paths within the hospitality industry.

Since its inception, the Junior Chef Academy has impacted approximately 250 students, with the Compass Group's ESS sector reporting last year that it had already assisted 100 pupils in participating in this initiative. Targeting children aged 14 to 16, the programme transcends traditional cooking lessons; it seeks to build confidence, encourage creativity, and inspire a new generation of culinary talent.

The ten-week programme is designed as a transformative culinary journey for junior chefs, focusing on the mastery of essential culinary techniques, as well as the crafting of a diverse assortment of dishes. Administered as an after-school club, the programme sets out to achieve several key objectives.

Jonathan Foot, director of skills & early careers at Compass Group UK & Ireland, emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating: “The Junior Chef Academy is an extremely impactful initiative. It’s not just about teaching skills; it’s about inspiring young people, connecting them to the hospitality industry, and showing them the exciting career opportunities it offers. For Compass, it’s an essential part of building a pipeline of future talent while also giving back to the communities we serve.”

Brakes Foodservice plays a pivotal role in the programme by sponsoring each participant with professional chef whites and providing the necessary ingredients for their culinary creations. A highlight of the initiative is the graduation event, at which guardians are invited to sample the dishes prepared by the students. During this event, Brakes representatives also engage with attendees to discuss their roles within the food industry.

Chris Pringle, corporate account director at Brakes Foodservice, expressed pride in the ongoing partnership, noting, “Our partnership with Compass continues to thrive and we are proud to support the Junior Chef Academy programme, which aligns perfectly with our own values and purpose - connecting the world to share food and care for one another.”

The Junior Chef Academy not only offers educational value but also contributes to the social fabric of local communities, reinforcing Compass Group UK and Ireland's commitment to its 'Our Social Promise' initiative, which aims to enhance opportunities for a million people by 2030.