Course Overview
Apprentices learn on the job, building up knowledge and skills, gaining qualifications and earning money all at the same time.
You will be employed and are paid a minimum of the National Minimum Apprenticeship Wage. You will work towards a Vocational Qualification, Functional Skills, Employer Rights and Responsibilities.
Apprentices will have the choice of one of six career paths within the industry. If you’re interested in service, you could train as waiting staff and learn how to serve customers, or train in drinks service – one of the fastest growing sub-sectors.
Apprentices interested in cookery could either train as a chef in a restaurant, or learn how to cook on a large scale for institutions like the NHS or armed forces.
Apprentices more interested in the hospitality side of the sector could work in a hotel reception area; learn to run a B&B or youth hostel; or keep a hotel crisp and clean.
The skills and knowledge an apprentice will acquire are highly transferable and there are many opportunities for an apprentice to develop their career in this sector. Apprentices may also go on to achieve other, higher level qualifications.
Apprenticeship Fees
Any fees incurred in the Apprenticeship framework are payable by the employer.
Please contact us for more information apprenticeships@don.ac.uk.
Apprenticeship Levy
In spring 2017 the way the government funds apprenticeships in England is changing. Some employers will be required to contribute to a new apprenticeship levy, and there will be changes to the funding for apprenticeship training for all employers.
The apprenticeship levy will be introduced on 6 April 2017. The levy requires all employers operating in the UK, with a pay bill over £3 million each year, to invest in apprenticeships.
For more information about how these changes will affect your business please contact apprenticeships@don.ac.uk or visit the Government website.
- Level
- Level 2 Level 3
- Duration
- 18 months per level
- Course Fees
- Click here for fee information
Units and Structure
For the Intermediate Apprenticeship you will need to achieve one of the following qualifications at level 2
Food Production and Cooking
Food & Beverage Service
Professional Cookery
Food Service
Beverage Service
For the Advanced Apprenticeship you will need to achieve one of the following qualifications at Level 3
Hospitality Supervision and Leadership
Professional Cookery
Functional Skills in Maths, English and ICT at Levels 1 or 2
Employment Rights and Responsibilities
You will be assessed throughout your Apprenticeship in your workplace and produce a portfolio of work to evidence your under pining knowledge and technical skills.
Some assessments will take the form of exams.
Entry Requirements
You'll need to have:
Entry assessments are required for all candidates.
Strong interest in Hospitality and Catering
Friendly, caring disposition
Self discipline
Motivation and enthusiasm
Excellent communication skills
Employment
For equivalent qualifications see our Entry Requirements Explained page.
Tutors and Student Support
Student Support and Facilities
As a student, you’ll have access to a wide range of facilities, services and support, including:
- Step outside the classroom and access our state of the art facilities as well as 3 huge Learning Resource Centres with thousands of resources to use
- With hands-on experience you’ll be prepared for employment with a competitive edge.
- A dedicated impartial careers advice team to help you on your future path
- Our wide range of courses means that we can offer the right paths to get you where you need to be
- Our Hub campus is right in the heart of the town centre meaning you can find your way to us easily
- Outstanding student support throughout your studies with us.
Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme
We're proud to be able to offer Dual Career Accreditation via the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme. This is a Sport England funded partnership between athletes, education institutions, and national governing bodies of sport.
The Scheme helps athletes in education – aged 16-plus – to get the very best from their sporting and academic careers without having to choose between the two.

Apply or Enquire
Want to know more or chat to us?
Have any further questions about this course? You can contact someone specifically about it by using the details below or filling in the enquiry form.
Apprenticeships Team
0800 358 7979
apprenticeships@don.ac.uk
Make an enquiry
Want to apply for this course?
You'll need to have:
Entry assessments are required for all candidates.
Strong interest in Hospitality and Catering
Friendly, caring disposition
Self discipline
Motivation and enthusiasm
Excellent communication skills
Employment
For equivalent qualifications see our Entry Requirements Explained page.
GCSE Grades are changing from 2017. Need to know more? Click here for information.
Application & Enrolment
Applying for an Apprenticeship is simple. You will need to apply for both a job role, and an Apprenticeship course. For further assistance in applying, please visit the link below.
Apply for an Apprenticeship now