Liam’s Story

“Liam’s journey from a quiet apprentice to a confident Assistant Head Chef shows exactly what an apprenticeship can achieve.”

Name: Liam

Course: Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship, Level 3 Senior Production Chef Apprenticeship. Hospitality leadership, kitchen operations, stock control, scheduling, waste reduction, and team development.

Next steps: Continued progression as Assistant Head Chef, further leadership development, and ongoing mentoring of junior chefs and apprentices within St Austell Brewery.

My Story

Since starting his Level 2 apprenticeship, Liam has progressed from a quiet learner into a highly valued Assistant Head Chef. He now oversees daily kitchen operations and manages the kitchen during the Head Chef’s absence, described by colleagues as “calm, reliable, and someone you can trust under pressure.”

Liam is the main point of contact for electronic and administrative systems, including stock control and ordering. Through careful management and improved processes, he has reduced waste and increased the site’s GP from 68.2% to 71.5%. He introduced key procedural improvements, including training the team to use Trail for waste reduction and strengthening health and safety and allergen procedures, creating “a safer, more efficient way of working.” Beyond numbers, Liam’s impact is seen in his mentoring of junior chefs, his commitment to high standards, and his ability to unite teams through professionalism and calm leadership.

He also trained colleagues to structure rotas using S4, improving labour control and saving approximately £11,000 annually. Once naturally introverted, Liam has learned to use his voice effectively, earning respect through knowledge, consistency, and leadership.

Liam’s apprenticeship journey reflects outstanding personal and professional growth. Completing his Level 2 Commis Chef qualification during the Covid-19 pandemic, he progressed to Level 3 Senior Production Chef while taking on increasing leadership responsibilities. He has become a key mentor for junior chefs, including the current Level 2 apprentice, supporting both skill development and confidence.

Colleagues note that “Liam leads by example” and that he has “grown into someone people naturally look to for guidance.” He communicates clearly, remains calm under pressure, and takes ownership of operational systems, ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently. By overcoming his natural shyness, Liam demonstrates how apprenticeships build not only technical competence but also confidence, resilience, and leadership behaviours.

Liam has delivered exceptional and measurable value to both the Rashleigh Arms and the Pier House. He has become a stabilising influence during periods of significant change, outlasting multiple General Managers and Head Chefs and providing continuity during transitions.

By developing his confidence, applying his learning, and consistently going above and beyond expectations, Liam embodies the very best of apprenticeship achievement. His journey proves that with the right support and determination, apprentices can grow into outstanding leaders and role models within the hospitality industry.