Ronan - third year apprentice at The Torridon

You are entering your third year with us which is optional, what made you decide to continue?  

I wanted to continue to my third year to mainly expand my knowledge in the restaurant and to gain more responsibility and confidence in my role. The Torridon is a great place to identify your potential and the training provided will support your journey. The Torridon provides 1st class training in all aspects of your department. The AHS training scheme is well structured and the results in the end are very rewarding and very good for the future.

You are able to choose your area of the business for your third year to specialise in, where are you going to be completing your training? 

Right now I’m focusing on expanding my skills in the 1887. I’ve learned a lot whilst being in the restaurant. From opening wine professionally at tables to serving guests items for their courses. There is always something to improve on and my restaurant manager has expanded my knowledge by training me to a very high level. The restaurant is fun and fast paced , and there is nothing better after you finish a successful busy service with your team.

How do you think your apprenticeship has added to your working experience? 

The apprenticeship has helped me so much with my working experience. Being sent on learning journeys etc have given me more knowledge about our industry and I feel I’m better prepared and confident to help guests coming into the restaurant and hotel. The apprenticeships 1-1 style training really pushes to maintain your work to a high level and this also comes into act at work when you’re serving guests to the torridon motives.

What has been the biggest lesson along the way? 

My biggest lesson in the hotel has been you have to be constantly adaptable in all aspects of your department or other departments. Anything can change in this industry and it’s important to be able to respond to things in a quick and knowledgable way. While you have the chance to expand your knowledge in other departments you should take the chance!

What is your favourite memory of The Torridon so far?  

My favourite memory of the Torridon so far would be the amount of different team members I have met along the way. Different nationalities and all have different stories to share. I’ve stayed in contact with a lot of the team who have moved on and will continue to meet a lot more during my stay here.