Luxury hospitality has always been about exceptional service, but behind every memorable guest experience is something even more valuable: exceptional leadership.

Developing great leaders isn't simply about teaching operational excellence. It's about investing in people, equipping them with the confidence, emotional intelligence and practical skills to inspire high-performing teams. That's exactly where apprenticeships can make a real difference.

Sarah Holden, Head of Talent Development at Home Grown Hotels, explains why luxury hospitality brands can no longer afford to overlook leadership apprenticeships as a powerful driver of confidence, progression and commercial performance.

From leaving school at 14 to leading a team of more than 50 people, Ethan Moore's career is proof that there isn't just one route to success. In this honest account, Ethan shares how an apprenticeship in hospitality gave him the confidence, skills and opportunities that traditional education couldn't - and why he's passionate about helping others discover the same path. Ethan is currently enrolled on our Luxury Leaders, Bath course.

We are pleased to invite you to an upcoming webinar hosted by the Umbrella Training team on Thursday 23 July 2026 at 2:00 PM.

This session will provide a comprehensive update on the evolving apprenticeship landscape and how we are supporting employers across the hospitality sector.

A Personal Plea to Employers: Please Help Young People Get Their First Real Chance

From baking a single loaf for a neighbour during lockdown to building one of London’s most celebrated artisan bakery brands, Sophia Handschuh shared her story of resilience, self-growth, determination and believing in yourself as guest speaker at the Umbrella Training Class of 2026 Graduation at The RAF Club in Piccadilly.

Acorn Award Winners 2026

Celebrating the achievements of our learners is at the heart of everything we do, and this year’s 2026 Graduation Event was a truly unforgettable occasion. Held at the prestigious Royal Air Force Club in the heart of Piccadilly, the event brought together graduates, tutors, employer partners, families, and supporters for an inspiring afternoon of recognition, pride, and celebration.

As the role of chefs in care settings continues to evolve, so too does the need for more specialised training and stronger leadership within kitchen teams. The National Association of Care Catering has partnered with Umbrella Training to develop the Care Culinary Leadership Programme, a Level 4 apprenticeship designed specifically for the sector. Care Home Catering spoke to Neel Radia – National Chairman, NACC and Sam Coulstock – Executive Director of Partnerships and Growth, Umbrella Training, about the thinking behind the programme, the challenges it aims to address, and what it means for future care.