Supporting apprentice chefs beyond the kitchen
With 9 out of 10 new jobs requiring post-school qualifications over the 10 years to 2033, encouraging today’s students to stay the course and complete training is a priority.
The Institute of Culinary Excellence (ICE) is one training provider helping hospitality students cross the culinary finish line and complete their qualifications.
The Institute’s Beyond the White Chef Jacket project is providing students with access to counselling and support services, to ensure the heat of the kitchen doesn’t get in the way of success.
Almost 50 budding chefs have participated in the project to-date - receiving direct support from the Institute’s Chef Mentor and Mental Health Counsellor and attending Conversations With Chefs events.
Since launching in October 2024, participating students have found it easier to access support and guidance – allowing them to share frustrations, regain self-confidence, and in one instance, transfer from a difficult workplace environment into a positive one.
ICE Mental Health Counsellor Ben Edwards said due to the unique demands and culture of the hospitality industry, apprentice chefs face distinct challenges.
“Traditionally, kitchen culture has encouraged the internalisation and masking of mental health struggles, contributing to tragic outcomes,” Mr Edwards said.
“This program has provided apprentice chefs with access to evidence-based support for mental health issues and life stressors…and has been instrumental in sustaining the employment of many of our apprentice chefs.”
Beyond the White Chef Jacket is one of 11 projects funded by the Queensland Government as part of $2 million Set for Success pilot program.
Under the program, Skills Assure Suppliers received up to $250,000 to develop and trial high-quality, innovative, and scalable initiatives to support and increase student completions in critical industries like construction, health, and hospitality.
This program is a joint initiative of the Australian Government and Queensland Government to support more students to complete their training.
Learn more about the Set for Success program.
Find out about The Right Skills Strategy.