“Preparing for the Catering Trades” offers young people in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France the chance to obtain not only catering qualifications but practical, professional work experience.

In the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs) now have the opportunity to train in the food service sector, thanks to an ESF-funded project.

“Preparing for the Catering Trades” enables young people to return to work in a sustainable way by giving them not only a qualification, but real experience and practical knowledge that they will be able to use.

Thanks to the ESF co-financing, the course has been adapted to the region’s needs, with local companies offering work placements and on-the-job training. It means that students can gain hands-on experience of the professional sector, which in turn encourages the development of softer skills such as teamwork and an understanding of corporate culture.