Galvin at Windows at London Hilton on Park Lane launches Young Adults Employment Initiative

Galvin at Windows (@GalvinatWindows), the award-winning restaurant located on the summit of the London Hilton (@HiltonHotels) on Park Lane, has this summer launched its Young Adults Employment Initiative – creating opportunities of a lifetime for young hospitality talent to thrive in the industry, in partnership with Bridge the Skills Gap.

The 12-week programme saw five hospitality and catering students from Tameside College hosted at the London Hilton on Park Lane. Students were provided with accommodation and meals in addition to being paid, and had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles in the restaurant; serving guests, managing sections, table side carving as well as other key functions. Mentored by the restaurant’s General Manager, Peter Avis FIH (Virgin Group, Kensington Roof Gardens) and his Restaurant Manager, Antonino Forte.

Providing a true taste of living and working independently for the first time, all students were paid full time hours. Furthermore, on successful completion of the programme, they will be offered full time positions either at Galvin at Windows or one of the Galvin sister restaurants.

The project has been developed by trailblazer General Manager Peter Avis who passionately believes we need to showcase Great British hospitality now more than ever. In partnership with John Holden, hospitality and catering teacher at the college, the duo are helping to bridge the industry’s employment gap, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the industry – as well as offering accommodation and meals to help with their transition to London.

Peter Avis, General Manager at Galvin at Windows:

“The collaboration of industry and education is crucial to help plug the skills gap and attract more young people into hospitality. The industry offers so many fantastic opportunities to build a fulfilling career, and we’re delighted to be supporting young people’s first steps into the sector through this scheme, ultimately helping to build a strong talent pipeline to protect the future of the industry. Excited to also share that we are accepting a new group of students to join the programme from this coming September.”

Micheal Shepherd, Area General Manager at London Hilton on Park Lane:

“Through this initiative, Peter and his team – in partnership with Bridge the Skills Gap – are playing a crucial role in upskilling young people and helping businesses to attract, retain and develop talent through dedicated training and hands-on experience. Peter, with the support of the London Hilton on Park Lane, has enrolled five hospitality students from Liverpool to take part in a twelve week programme guided and mentored by the outstanding leadership of Peter and his Restaurant Manager, Antonino Forte.

Daniel Gavin, food and beverage student at Tameside College:

“I am elated to get the chance to improve my craft in London, in one of the top restaurants. It will be great to work with some of the best service staff and management in the industry to develop new skills and knowledge. It’s definitely something I can put on my CV for the future.”