Chris Galvin endorses new initiative from HTP Training

Award-winning restaurateur Chris Galvin has given his backing to a new scheme aimed to encourage youngsters into the hospitality industry.

The initiative called “Your Future in Hospitality” from HTP Training is based on the Isle of Wight and is offering unemployed 16-23 year olds the opportunity to participate in a free hospitality-focused training programme to help develop skills which could aid their chances of permanent employment.

Michelin-starred chef Chris Galvin said: “It’s great to see the number of people HTP Training have brought together to support this scheme. People don’t realise the job and skills shortage we have in the industry. Hospitality is crying out for youngsters yet so many people aren’t in work.

“For us at Galvin Restaurants to be able to work hand in hand with HTP Training and the employers is brilliant. To be able to follow the progress of young people who are quickly developing their own career in the industry is great too.”

The programme was developed in collaboration with People 1^st, the sector skills council for the industry, and designed to highlight the importance of tourism and hospitality to the Isle of Wight.

Rachel Fidler, founder and managing director at HTP Training, said: “Join with us to offer high quality on and off job training for young people. Help us to provide them with a meaningful learning experience that will show them how they can both contribute and fit into the world of work.”

Since it was established in 2000, HTP has been a key player in helping develop talent on the Isle of Wight, offering apprenticeships to hundreds of young people every year and over the last three academic years, 94% of those who got their roles through HTP have remained in employment.

During their last Ofsted inspection, HTP Training was awarded Grade 1 for being outstanding in every area of training and services.