Apprenticeships are a unique way to learn on the job and develop the skills and confidence to kickstart your career. We speak to two apprentices at the QEII Centre, Robby and Destiny, who joined through the Levy UK & Ireland apprenticeship scheme.

The scheme, which is run by Levy’s parent company, Compass Group UK & Ireland, provides our apprentices with the opportunity to develop skills in a number of business areas, as well as attracting new talent and providing a career path in conjunction with the different business units. With the support of Compass, QEII Taste have a team of six on its apprenticeship courses, including chefs, members of the operations team and office-based roles, e.g. finance and administration.

Robby and Destiny talk about the journeys they have undertaken at the QEII, what they have learnt and achieved so far and their aims for the future.

Why did you enrol on the apprenticeship with Levy?

Robby Price, Finance apprentice, QEII Taste: I enrolled on this apprenticeship because it matched my interests and skills, and it allowed me to strengthen these and develop many new ones through the training provided, which is a huge part within every apprenticeship.  In addition to applying these skills, I get to work in an exciting and dynamic workplace.

Destiny Scully, Business coordinator apprentice, QEII Taste: I enrolled on the apprentice scheme with Levy as I was working in the administrative role at the time and the opportunity offered to me to be part of this was too good to miss out on, as I felt it could develop my skills and confidence as well as open up future opportunities.

What have you learnt and achieved through the apprenticeship?

Robbie: As a result of this apprenticeship, I have acquired valuable skills, including effective communication, teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving (which is invaluable within an accounting context), and other technical skills specific to the field of my apprenticeship. I have had many opportunities to visit new places around Compass and enjoy team experiences, such as representing the QEII Centre when we won gold for the most sustainable venue at the London Venue Awards (which was an incredible experience). Overall, I have grown both professionally and personally thanks to this apprenticeship.

Destiny: I have learnt a lot of things in the venue and with my team! I have learnt how to be more confident when approaching new people/clients, create better relationships with clients, and how to cater for events more independently, ‘the more information the better’. I have also learnt about new foods which I wouldn’t have known about if I wasn’t working here.

I have had the honour to represent QEII Taste at the ‘London Venue & Catering Awards 2024’ and have also been recognised by my General Manager and team for doing really well in my studies whilst also helping out throughout a very busy period for the venue.

I have been able to run events, including my first big event of 140 pax on my own, and the clients were very happy and impressed with how I ran it.

What areas have you worked in, and what have you enjoyed most?

Robbie: As part of my role as a Finance Assistant Apprentice, I have worked in areas such as financial analysis, budgeting, bookkeeping and management accounting, amongst other things. The area I have most enjoyed working in is financial analysis, as you are able to spot trends in revenue and expenses over time, for example.

Destiny: I have worked in the office and with front of house. I really enjoy my time in the office as I am able to build relationships with clients and get tasks done. My time with front of house was really useful as I was able to see first-hand how they work and the procedures they follow. I can see how everyone works so well together to make the catering service as great as it is.

What would you say to someone considering this apprenticeship scheme?

Robbie: I think it’s a fantastic opportunity and a great way for someone to kickstart their career. You’ll gain practical experience in various financial tasks, learn from your colleagues and other professionals, and develop valuable skills that can set you up for a successful career in finance or along other business paths if you so wish.

Destiny: I would definitely recommend the scheme to anyone considering it.  This scheme opens up so many doors for your future you would regret not taking the change. You get to build and develop lots of new skills that can really help you later on in life, not just for the job.

What are your aims once you complete the apprenticeship?

Robbie: After completing this apprenticeship, my aim is to continue growing and to further develop my skills and knowledge in the finance field.

Destiny: To stay with QEII taste and add to my qualifications.

We wish them both well in their journey with the QEII Centre.