Hall & Woodhouse launches chef apprenticeship programme with Activate Apprenticeships at Reading College and University Centre

We are delighted to announce the launch of our next apprenticeship programme in partnership with Activate Apprenticeships at Reading College and University Centre. We have two managed houses near Reading including Peacock Farm and H&W Crowthorne. Enrolment for the apprenticeship is now open, with the course starting in January 2026.

The partnership with Activate Apprenticeships at Reading College and University Centre follows successful apprenticeship programmes with other education providers in Bournemouth, Chichester, and Exeter. The new Level 3 (Senior) Production Chef Apprenticeship offers aspiring chefs the opportunity to develop their skills, knowledge, and confidence while working in our kitchens across the region. Reading College will accommodate up to 16 apprentices, making this the largest cohort of H&W apprentices to date. The Reading College intake is more than 30% larger than any previous apprenticeship course, which previously has been limited to 12 apprentices. The apprentices start their training in January at Reading College and University Centre.

Jill Meyerhoff, Head of Recruitment & Immigration, said: “The expansion of our apprenticeship offering with Activate Apprenticeships at Reading College allows us to nurture even more culinary talent within our business and in communities across the south. Our programme gives people the opportunity to grow, gain qualifications, and build rewarding careers with Hall & Woodhouse. We have seen fantastic results, including each Chichester apprentice passing their end-point assessment during 2025. We’re excited to see the same success in Reading.”

The apprenticeship focusses on providing high-quality, practical training designed to suit the needs of both apprentices and our kitchen teams. The course has been newly refined to an eight-month format and is derived from H&W’s own menu. Basing the course on the organisation’s own menu ensures it is closely aligned with the skills required for the job and supports career progression within the company. The programme covers all levels of kitchen operation from commis chefs to head chefs, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of professional cookery.

To qualify, apprentices must have already worked in a H&W kitchen for a minimum of six months, ensuring each student brings valuable experience and commitment to the course. The first eight-month version of the apprenticeship launched with Bournemouth & Poole College in October 2025. The updated programme allows for a more streamlined curriculum while maintaining the same high standards and qualification level. Our apprenticeship programmes are delivered by Activate Apprenticeships.

Dawn Hoskins, Business Engagement Specialist for Activate Apprenticeships, said: “We’re delighted to bring high-quality hospitality training to Reading with Hall & Woodhouse. Together we’re making it more accessible for local talent and supporting H&W’s commitment to developing skilled team members across the region. This partnership not only strengthens our relationship with Hall & Woodhouse, but also reinforces our goal of creating meaningful career pathways within the hospitality sector.”